Homedics Shiatsu Plus Vibration Massage Pillow

As far as the massage functions in the cushion itself, it is much like many other "shiatsu" massage pillows on the market: there are rotating flat disks (about 1" - 1.5" in diameter) that move in a preset pattern designed to hit all your sore points. The disks (like in other models/makes) are hard, so be prepared to experience a deeper massage, but by no means a painful one. There is also a standard heat function which can be turned off if desired. Where this Homedics model bests its competitors, however, is in a few added perks. Most importantly: the cord is super long (twice as long as other competing pillows I own). This is so great when laying down in bed with the pillow because I am no longer constantly pulling the cord out of the wall! Also, this pillow features an added vibration mode which can be used in conjunction with the massaging disks or alone. The vibration was a lot more effective than I imagined in that it actually works to sort of "deaden" the area being worked on - the vibration/massage together is my favorite setting. Another important plus is the cover of the pillow which is (1) washable, (2) very soft and (3) features a flap which can be pulled down over the pillow in order to soften the massaging disks if they are hitting a little too hard. It is really an ingenious idea that allows the consumer to modestly alter the quality of the massage. As with all of these pillows, it is a little bulky to deal with, but the soft cover on this model makes handling it a little better than others. It is just something that one gets used to maneuvering, but I find this pillow can offer some moderate-major relief to anyone suffering from neck, lower back, hip and/or leg pain.

The shiatsu massage balls inside the pillow are hard as a rock. Not as good advertised. It does vibrate, heat, and the massage balls whirl but it is uncomfortable at any angle or location. Tried it with or without the comfort flap. Tried sitting in chair, lying on couch and bed. Still felt like someone was driving golf balls into my back and neck from 10 feet away.

I've been using these small HoMedics Shiatsu Massage Pillows for years now and love using them on my back, shoulders, neck, and legs. I rid myself of plantar fasciitis by using one of these on my left heel - no lie! You have to go slowly and work up to braving your heel through the rollers though - stepping on it isn't strong enough to break up scar tissue. The heel was sore for the first day but the second day I was pain free! These pillows last for years and the only thing I've found that goes awry is the massage rollers will sometimes get out of sync - it feels much better when the two rollers meet in the middle at the same time. This is probably the 6th pillow I've purchased over the years, the first from Amazon, and I find the quality has actually improved and the massage is a little stronger with this last one. Don't waste your money on the more expensive full-back massager that you place in a chair because if you're tall like me the rollers miss your neck and lower back. The small pillow can be moved to wherever you have knots that need working out. Purchasing from Amazon saved me ten dollars or more than buying from the local bed and bathroom store.

I get tension headaches several times a week that radiate from my shoulders, up the back of my neck and around my head. Side effects of a stressful job, I guess. I was popping pain medication way more often than I would like but then discovered a neck massage could alleviate some of the pain without pills. After research, I decided to buy this and am very glad I did. First, the pros: - Motor is strong and I can really lean into it and it keeps going. Under the fabric, are flat round disks that can really dig into knots. - Heat option is great and it goes a long way to relaxing tense muscles. I like that the disks glow red when the heat is on. - I like a hard massage so I use without the padded flap but appreciate that I have an option. - Cord is long enough to move the pillow around without pulling out of the electrical socket. And now, a few cons: - The massage rollers are a little too far apart to reach both sides of my neck at the same time. If you have a thick neck, this shouldn't be a problem, but for me, I have to shift around to get one side then the other. - It's loud. You get used to the grinding noise after a while but it's not the most relaxing sound. - It takes some time to heat up. You won't feel the heat through the padded flap but if you don't cover the rollers you'll start feeling the heat in about 5 min. Overall, the negatives are minor complaints and I'm quite happy with this. The pillow now lives next to my bed where I can get a little massage at the end of a stressful day.

This massage pillow works just okay. Does not get very hot and is a bit loud. To get the right pressure, you have to lift the pillow flap and put the pillow in between yourself and a semi firm surface. Best for lower back and legs. Not suited for neck and shoulders. If I were to order again I'd just pay more and get the HoMedics Neck and Shoulder Massager with Heat. My sister-in-law has it and the shape and function of it is much better.