A good neck massager can be a great comfort, and it can help to relieve a great deal of tension and stress. It can also help to alleviate other problems like headaches. Here are some things to look for in a good neck massage cushion.
Neck Massager Photo by Frank Kovalchek via Flickr
Fit
There are several different types to consider. Some of them will fit like a collar. However, some are designed to work on the back and the shoulders also. Here is more about the collar type.
Collar Fit
You will usually find products that deliver heat and massage. However, some massage will be from vibrations and others may be from a Shiatsu method. The Shiatsu method is somewhat different from the vibration method.
Shiatsu massage is based on the principle of acupressure. There are rivers of energy in the body that flow throughout. Acupressure teaches that these rivers or meridians can sometimes be blocked. When this happens, energy cannot freely flow and there may be pain and other types of disorders. The Shiatsu massage is directed at points in the upper spine to help relieve the pressure that causes this energy blockage.
There are tiny roller balls that move about to apply pressure. This pressure does not need the presence of heat. However, some products supply heat to help with relaxation.
Manual
There are also many types of manual devices available. Some are in the shape of a hook or bar. You simply grab the handles and direct pressure to specific areas of the spine. These devices work without any type of heat or massage.
About Heat
Heat is very important to most of these products. Look for one that provides more than one level of heat. This way, you can adjust it for your comfort level. What feels good for one person may be too hot for you. Also, make sure that you choose a product that will shut the heat off after fifteen or twenty minutes. This is an important feature for two reasons.
1. If the heat is left on for too long, it may be damage the pad. It also may get extremely hot and burn out the heat mechanism. Any time you have electricity on, it also may present a fire hazard.
2. It may be a personal danger. Very hot things can easily burn or damage the skin. These burns can sometimes be severe.
Controls
You may see a lot of different controls. Choose a product with easy to use controls. Remote controls may be the easiest to operate. Some controls will have many more options than others. For example, you may be able to select different massage and heat levels. Some Shiatsu models may allow you to program different massage sequences.
Summary
When looking for a good neck massager, consider how it fits. Some of the better ones may fit like a collar. There will be heat, vibration and Shiatsu massage methods. Shiatsu works by applying pressure to various points in the body. When you shop for a neck massage cushion, get one that shuts the heat off automatically. This will be much safer and may help to avoid burns or injuries.
