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Best Foam Roller For Neck And Shoulders (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to reduce muscle tension, ease soreness, and increase flexibility in your neck and shoulders, a foam roller might just be the solution you’re looking for. A foam roller is a cylindrical piece of foam that can be used to apply pressure to trigger points in your muscles, helping to alleviate discomfort and restore mobility. But before you run out to buy the first foam roller you see, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider to ensure you get the best results.

First, think about the size and shape of the foam roller. A smaller roller might be more effective for targeting specific trigger points, while a larger roller might be better for covering larger areas. You’ll also want to consider the firmness of the foam – a softer foam might be more comfortable to use, but a firmer foam might be more effective at breaking up knots and tight spots.

If you’re still not sure if a foam roller is right for you, ask yourself these questions: Do you suffer from muscle tension or tightness in your neck and shoulders? Do you find it difficult to stretch or move your head and neck without discomfort? Have you tried other methods of pain relief with little success? If you answered yes to any of these questions, a foam roller might be just the thing you need to relieve your pain and improve your mobility. So why not give it a try?

10 Best Foam Roller For Neck And Shoulders

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for self-myofascial release, massage mobility, and recovery of muscles in various parts of the body like hips, back, spine, legs, and shoulders.
2
This product is ideal for correcting posture, exercising the back, shoulder and neck, and relaxing hip muscles and stretching calves.
3
Ideal for neck pain relief, cervical traction, and improving range of motion in the neck. Includes foam roller and massage balls.
4
This product is ideal for relieving back, shoulder, and neck pain through yoga and exercise.
5
The product is ideal for targeted muscle massage and deep stretching, enabling users to alleviate back pain and discomfort.
6
The product is ideal for providing heat and vibration therapy to aid in pain relief and recovery.
7
Ideal for deep tissue massage, physical therapy, trigger point release, back pain relief, and relieving sore muscles.
8
The product is ideal for deep tissue and trigger point muscle myofascial release during yoga therapy.
9
The product is ideal for exercise, muscle recovery, and deep tissue massage.
10
Ideal for physical therapy and exercise, the low-density foam roller helps alleviate muscle tension, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion.
Ideal for self-myofascial release, massage mobility, and recovery of muscles in various parts of the body like hips, back, spine, legs, and shoulders.
This product is ideal for correcting posture, exercising the back, shoulder and neck, and relaxing hip muscles and stretching calves.
Ideal for neck pain relief, cervical traction, and improving range of motion in the neck. Includes foam roller and massage balls.
This product is ideal for relieving back, shoulder, and neck pain through yoga and exercise.
The product is ideal for targeted muscle massage and deep stretching, enabling users to alleviate back pain and discomfort.
The product is ideal for providing heat and vibration therapy to aid in pain relief and recovery.
Ideal for deep tissue massage, physical therapy, trigger point release, back pain relief, and relieving sore muscles.
The product is ideal for deep tissue and trigger point muscle myofascial release during yoga therapy.
The product is ideal for exercise, muscle recovery, and deep tissue massage.
Ideal for physical therapy and exercise, the low-density foam roller helps alleviate muscle tension, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion.

1. Ultimate Mobility Roller

Ease your aches and pains with the RAD High Density Foam Roller. This stiff density foam roller helps reduce inflammation and strain on soft tissue trigger points, promoting an increased sense of wellness and body awareness with daily fascia massage. It can be used on various muscles including the neck, spine, legs, quads, IT bands, hamstrings, back, hips, pecs, and shoulders, improving joint range of motion and myofascial mobility to help increase strength, speed and wellness.

Using this foam roller for 10 minutes a day can help promote faster post-exercise/workout recovery. Recovery is important for staying injury-free and minimizing movement restrictions, making the RAD High Density Foam Roller a must-have for body maintenance.

This foam roller features an angled recess to massage your muscles, not your bones, and an inner opening for pairing with the RAD Rod and holding the RAD Atom when placed upright (both sold separately). It is non-bulky and can be easily carried for on-the-go use at home, the gym, your yoga studio, or in your suitcase. Measuring 14 inches x 5.5 inches and weighing 2.8 pounds, it is the perfect travel size for your convenience.

Pros

  • Reduces inflammation and strain on soft tissue trigger points
  • Improves joint range of motion and myofascial mobility
  • Promotes faster post-exercise/workout recovery
  • High density foam roller with angled recess for muscle massage
  • Non-bulky and easily portable for on-the-go use

Cons

  • – May be too stiff for some users

2. Wave Posture Pillow With Muscle Relaxation Roller

The SNPE wave pillow is a half foam roller that is designed to help improve posture and relieve pain in the upper back, shoulders, neck, and lower back. It is made of premium ABS plastic, which is an extra hard material that is durable and long-lasting. However, customers are advised to understand the use of this material before making the purchase.

The wave pillow is an excellent tool for performing posture correction movements, which can be learned by watching the videos on YouTube. The SNPE community is the largest posture correction community in South Korea, and their app is available on iOS and Android to help assess your current posture.

Unlike traditional round foam rollers, the half roller design of the wave pillow is perfect for relaxing the muscles in the legs and hips. It is also great for stretching the calf muscles by standing on the surface of the wave pillow. Start your first posture correction exercise with SNPE today and experience the benefits of their 30 years of philosophy and empirical research.

Pros

  • Made of premium, extra hard ABS plastic for durability and long-lasting use
  • Designed to help improve posture and relieve pain in various parts of the body
  • Excellent tool for performing posture correction movements
  • Half roller design is perfect for relaxing muscles in the legs and hips
  • Great for stretching calf muscles by standing on the surface of the wave pillow
  • SNPE community is the largest posture correction community in South Korea
  • Assessment app available on iOS and Android to help assess your current posture

3. Neck Oasis: 5-In-1 Stretcher & Massager Set

Indulge in a calming neck massage from the comfort of your own home with this Relaxing Neck Relief set. This neck support is designed to help reduce pressure on your spine while easing pain in your neck and shoulders. By using it regularly, you may find that you can relieve any built-up tension and stress in these areas.

This neck brace also comes with a foam roller, single, double, and hexagonal massage balls that are perfect for releasing muscle pain and tension in your back, buttocks, legs, and hips. The combination of these tools can provide relief to various parts of the body, leaving you feeling more relaxed and refreshed.

Using this set is a breeze, as it comes with an instruction manual for each massage tool, making it easy to use without any difficulties. The set is also lightweight and comes with a carrying bag, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Whether you're at the gym, in the park, or traveling, you can always enjoy a soothing massage with this kit.

This Relaxing Neck Relief set also makes for an ideal gift for your friends and family. The massagers are packaged in a customized box, making it a thoughtful and useful present that can be used anytime, anywhere.

Pros

  • Helps reduce pressure on the spine
  • Relieves pain in the neck and shoulders
  • Includes various massage tools for different parts of the body
  • Easy to use with instruction manuals provided
  • Lightweight and comes with a carrying bag for portability
  • Great gift idea with a customized box packaging

4. Lifepro Yoga Wheel Set – Relief And Alignment!

The Yoga Wheel Set comes in three sizes – small, medium, and large, to support and enhance your practice. The small wheel can be used as a relaxing back massage roller, particularly for neck and shoulder relief. This set allows you to relieve unwanted tension and stress by using it as a spine stretcher, opening up your back and releasing built-up pressure. With the support of the back roller wheel, you'll be able to move deeper into your stretches than ever before. The Yoga Wheel Set is also easy to travel with as you can throw them in your bag, loop them over your rolled mat, or carry them over your shoulder. You can even hang them on the wall for easy storage. Additionally, the product comes with lifetime support, ensuring you get the necessary assistance from the manufacturer's team of guiding angels.

Pros

  • Comes in three practical sizes for different purposes
  • Can be used as a relaxing back massage roller for neck and shoulder relief
  • Helps to relieve unwanted tension, stress, and pressure
  • Allows for deeper stretches with back roller wheel support
  • Easy to travel with and store
  • Comes with lifetime support from the manufacturer's team

5. Chirp Set: 4 Foam Rollers For Total Relief.

The Chirp Wheel+ is an innovative and functional back stretcher set designed with trigger points in mind to break up tight muscle fibers and hard-to-reach parts in your back. This set includes 4 wheels, each with different diameters, to target specific muscles, including your lower back, upper back, shoulders, and neck. The wheel back stretcher set is built to last, providing your back with a soft and comfortable experience. The body roller is made with a durable skid-resistant 1/2-inch-thick sweat-resistant foam padding, a soft EVA compression-sensitive mat, and a sturdy PVC-free ABS plastic core that can withstand the weight of up to 500 lbs. The back stretcher roller wheels are also light, making them easy to travel with for on-the-go back exercise just about anywhere. This back stretching equipment is designed to fit right between your shoulder blades and features a patent-pending spinal canal allowing for a comfortable massage along both sides of the spine. The body roller wheel puts compression on the muscles surrounding the spine, which stretches and targets them, releasing pressure to your back. The Chirp Wheel+ back stretcher is made specifically for fitness and deep tissue massage. Each size provides a different pressure and specifically targets your back where it needs to. The smaller the wheel, the more targeted the pressure, and the larger the wheel, the greater the opening effect in the chest. This back stretcher wheel is perfect for you if you're looking for an all-in-one rolling device or stretching equipment to help release pressure on your body. You can experience deep stretches you've never had without flexing or bending under pressure. The back stretcher wheel is easy to use and takes less than 5 minutes a day. Simply sit down, place the wheel at your back, and lean back for the perfect at-home massage. You can use the back stretcher wheel on the ground or while sitting down in your favorite chair, so you can do what feels ideal on your back!

Pros

  • Designed with trigger points in mind to break up tight muscle fibers and hard-to-reach parts in your back
  • Includes 4 wheels, each with different diameters, to target specific muscles
  • Built-to-last quality, providing your back with a soft and comfortable experience
  • Features a patent-pending spinal canal allowing for a comfortable massage along both sides of the spine
  • Easy to use, taking less than 5 minutes a day
  • Can be used on the ground or while sitting down in your favorite chair
  • Perfect for fitness and deep tissue massage

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for individuals who have severe back pain or injuries, and it is recommended to consult a doctor or physical therapist before using

6. Venom 2 – Advanced Heat + Vibration Wrap (Back) – Fsa Or Hsa Approved

The Venom 2 Back by Hyperice is an advanced heat and massage wrap that provides instant relief to sore muscles. This device features HyperHeat technology for consistent and even heating, heating up 6x faster than a standard heating pad. Its surface area is 2x larger than other wraps, and the HyperHeat technology ensures that the heat is evenly distributed across the treated area. The wrap also features three levels of heat and vibration patterns, allowing users to customize their massage experience to best fit their needs. This combination helps melt away stress and tension, alleviate soreness, loosen muscle knots, and maintain flexibility and range of motion throughout the day. The Venom 2 line has an improved fit and unmatched customization. It features a refreshed user interface, a comfortable, lightweight neoprene wrap, an extended 3-hour battery life, a new adjustable compression strap, and Bluetooth connectivity to the Hyperice App for remote control, making it easy to wrap with warmth anywhere.

Pros

  • HyperHeat technology provides consistent and even heating
  • Heats up 6x faster than a standard heating pad
  • Surface area is 2x larger than other wraps
  • Three levels of heat and vibration patterns for customized massage experience
  • Helps melt away stress and tension, alleviate soreness, loosen muscle knots, and maintain flexibility and range of motion
  • Improved fit and unmatched customization
  • Refreshed user interface and comfortable, lightweight neoprene wrap
  • Extended 3-hour battery life
  • New adjustable compression strap for a more customized fit
  • Bluetooth connectivity to the Hyperice App for remote control

7. Wodfitters Usa Foam Roller – Warp Speed Recovery!

Recover from intense training sessions like Murph with the Trigger Pin Roller! This roller features a unique patented technology that combines high-impact, high-performance microcellular foam with lightweight, translucent urethane wheels, making it ideal for releasing your myofascial adhesions. Its ingenious double-bubble core is designed to hone in on your trigger points like no other roller on the market. The roller comes equipped with four-inch non-marking rubber wheels that allow it to roll quietly.

The popular Double Bubble model is perfect for targeting your neck and upper trapezius to your lower lumbar region. It can also be used for lower body rolling as an entry-level roller since your weight can be distributed on two points. As you progress, you can easily shift onto one of the cores for more targeted massage.

The Trigger Pin Roller is endorsed by chiropractors, physical therapists, and massage therapists alike, as it can find and eliminate your trigger points safely and effectively in half the time it takes foam rollers. It treats a wide range of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, lower back pain, mid to upper back pain, shoulder pain, hip pain, IT band syndrome, shin splints, cramping calves, sore quadriceps, and hamstring tightness. It also improves post-workout recovery, joint range of motion, vascular endothelial function, balance, mobility, agility, athletic performance, strength, and flexibility.

Get the most out of your recovery routine with the Trigger Pin Roller!

Pros

  • Unique patented technology combines high-impact, high-performance microcellular foam with lightweight, translucent urethane wheels for effective myofascial release
  • Ingenious double-bubble core targets trigger points like no other roller on the market
  • Four-inch non-marking rubber wheels allow for quiet rolling
  • Can be used to treat a wide range of conditions and improve various aspects of physical performance

8. Peanut Roller: Deep Tissue Massage Therapy

The 9horn foam roller is a must-have for anyone looking to increase muscle flexibility and reduce muscle pain and tension. This peanut-shaped foam roller is designed for deep tissue massage and self-myofascial relief. Its compact size of just 9.5 inches in length and 4.5 inches in diameter makes it easy to use and portable.

Made from ultra high-density foam material (EPP), this foam roller is significantly harder than others on the market. This means that it is perfect for advanced users as well as beginners. The higher material density also increases the workout intensity, allowing for a more effective massage.

Despite its sturdiness, the 9horn foam roller is incredibly lightweight. This makes it easy to carry with you to the gym or use at home. It's the perfect addition to your workout routine, helping to speed up muscle recovery and reduce muscle pain and tension within just minutes of application.

If you're looking for a well-designed, high-quality foam roller at a fair price, the 9horn foam roller is the perfect choice. Customer satisfaction is their highest aim, so you can be confident that you're making a great investment in your health and wellbeing.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use and portable
  • Perfect for beginners and advanced users alike
  • Ultra high-density foam material increases workout intensity
  • Helps to speed up muscle recovery and reduce muscle pain and tension
  • Well-designed and fairly priced

9. Grid Roller: Muscle Recovery & Deep Tissue Massage

The Trigger Point Performance Foam Roller is a patented design that offers a superior foam rolling experience. The exterior is made of multi-density foam over a rigid, hollow core, ensuring durability and shape retention even with repeated use. This roller is trusted by physical and massage therapists, coaches, trainers and athletes alike.

Measuring at 13 x 5.5 inches, the Original GRID foam roller has a standard density and can accommodate up to 500 pounds of weight. It is constructed from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand heavy use without breaking down or losing shape.

To help you get the most out of your foam roller, the Trigger Point Performance Foam Roller comes with access to a free online instructional video library. This library is filled with foam rolling best practices from the experts at Trigger Point.

Pros

  • Patented design that offers a superior foam rolling experience
  • Multi-density foam over a rigid, hollow core for durability and shape retention
  • Trusted by physical and massage therapists, coaches, trainers, and athletes
  • Constructed from high-quality materials that withstand heavy use without breaking down or losing shape
  • Comes with access to a free online instructional video library

10. Softpro Foam Roller – 36 Inch For Therapy

The Professional Quality Foam Roller is a high-quality fitness tool designed to withstand heavy use at the gym or in a clinic. Made of closed-cell foam, it can easily be wiped clean, unlike other open-cell foam rollers. It is constructed of closed-cell, heat-molded EVA foam, making it more durable than store model foam rollers. The soft density provides a comfortable compression that gently relieves tight areas during self-massage rolling. It also provides support for lying supine and performing various exercises. Its versatility makes it ideal for balance and stability exercises such as Pilates, as well as traditional self-massage applications. The roller measures 36 inches long by 6 inches in diameter, making it a standard size that can be easily stored and transported.

Pros

  • Designed to withstand heavy use at the gym or in a clinic
  • Closed-cell foam is easy to clean
  • Constructed of closed-cell, heat-molded EVA foam, making it more durable than store model foam rollers
  • Soft density provides a comfortable compression that gently relieves tight areas during self-massage rolling
  • Provides support for lying supine and performing various exercises
  • Versatile, ideal for balance and stability exercises such as Pilates in addition to traditional self-massage applications
  • Standard size makes it easy to store and transport

Best Foam Roller For Neck And Shoulders FAQs

Can foam rolling help reduce tension headaches in the neck and shoulders?

Yes, foam rolling can help reduce tension headaches in the neck and shoulders. Tension headaches are often caused by tight and tense muscles in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. Foam rolling is a form of self-myofascial release (SMR) that involves using a foam roller to apply pressure to tight muscles and fascia in order to release tension and improve mobility.

Foam rolling can target the specific muscles that are causing tension headaches, such as the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and suboccipital muscles. By rolling out these muscles, you can increase blood flow and oxygen to the area, which can help reduce pain and discomfort.

It's important to note that foam rolling should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If you are experiencing chronic tension headaches or other symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Overall, foam rolling can be a helpful tool in reducing tension headaches in the neck and shoulders, but it should be used in conjunction with other self-care practices and medical treatment as needed.

How to use a foam roller for neck and shoulder pain relief?

Foam rolling has been gaining popularity as an effective therapy to relieve muscle pain and tension. While it is commonly used for the lower body, it can also be used for neck and shoulder pain relief. Here's how to use a foam roller for neck and shoulder pain relief:

1. Position the foam roller on the ground and lie down on your back with the foam roller underneath your shoulder blades.

2. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the ground.

3. Raise your arms above your head and interlace your fingers.

4. Slowly roll the foam roller up and down your back, focusing on the tight areas.

5. When you reach a tender spot, stop and hold for 15-30 seconds.

6. Continue to roll up and down your back, targeting different areas.

7. To target the neck, move the foam roller up to the base of your skull and gently roll side to side.

Remember, foam rolling should not be painful. If you experience any discomfort, ease off the pressure or stop altogether. Regular use of a foam roller can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and relieve tension in the neck and shoulders.

What are some common foam roller exercises for neck and shoulder muscle relaxation?

Foam roller exercises are a great way to relieve tension and pain in your neck and shoulders. One of the most common foam roller exercises for neck and shoulder muscle relaxation is the neck roll. To do this exercise, place the foam roller under your neck and gently roll your head from side to side. You can also pause for a few seconds in areas that feel particularly tense.

Another effective foam roller exercise for neck and shoulder muscle relaxation is the shoulder blade squeeze. To do this exercise, lie on your back with the foam roller under your mid-back. Then, bring your shoulder blades together and hold for a few seconds before releasing.

You can also use the foam roller to massage your shoulders. Simply place the roller under your shoulder and use your body weight to apply pressure. Roll back and forth, pausing in areas that feel particularly tight.

Overall, foam roller exercises are a great way to release tension and promote relaxation in your neck and shoulders. They can also help improve your posture and reduce the risk of injury.

What are the benefits of using a foam roller for neck and shoulder muscles?

Using a foam roller for neck and shoulder muscles can have several benefits. Firstly, it can help to increase blood flow to the targeted muscles, which can aid in the healing process and reduce inflammation. Additionally, foam rolling can help to release tension and knots in the muscles, which can improve flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly helpful for individuals who spend long periods of time sitting at a desk or engaging in other activities that cause tension in the neck and shoulders.

Foam rolling can also be an effective way to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness after a workout or other physical activity. By applying pressure to the muscles, the roller can help to break up lactic acid and other waste products that can build up in the muscles, which can reduce soreness and promote faster recovery.

Overall, using a foam roller for neck and shoulder muscles can be a simple and effective way to improve muscle health, reduce tension and soreness, and enhance overall physical performance.

Which is the best foam roller for neck and shoulder pain?

When it comes to choosing the best foam roller for neck and shoulder pain, there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, you will want to look for a foam roller that is specifically designed for these areas, as they may require a different level of density or texture compared to other parts of the body. Additionally, you may want to consider the size and shape of the roller, as well as any additional features such as ridges or bumps to target specific trigger points.

One top-rated option for neck and shoulder pain is the TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller, which features a unique grid pattern that provides targeted relief to sore muscles. It is also available in a variety of sizes and densities to suit individual needs. Another popular choice is the RumbleRoller, which has deep, firm bumps that can effectively release tension in the neck and shoulders.

Ultimately, the best foam roller for neck and shoulder pain will depend on your individual preferences and needs. It may be helpful to consult with a healthcare professional or personal trainer to determine the best option for you.

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