Shoulder Massage Tools

Daily activities like sitting in front of the computer and hunching over the steering wheel while driving lead to tense, inflexible muscles in the neck and upper back, causing shoulder pain. According to MassageTools.com, shoulder pain occurs when "the chest muscles shorten and contract, causing the muscles in the upper back to become overstretched." Luckily, there are many at-home shoulder massage tools that provide relaxation, pain relief and a better quality of life.

The Stick

• The Stick glides over tense muscles in the shoulders and increases circulation.

  The Stick, by Intracell, is covered with plastic rungs that allow it to glide back and forth over sore muscles. This long rod with plastic grip handles on either end comes in varying lengths, between 17 to 30 inches, with longer versions being ideal for neck and shoulder massage. The Stick also comes in varying tensions. Harder versions are ideal for deep tissue massage, according to The-Stick.co.uk, while more flexible versions are better for a softer massage. Invented and produced in the U.S. since 1991, The Stick costs anywhere from 25 to 40 dollars at 2010 prices.

Backnobber II

• The Backnobber II fits into a standard-size briefcase for a massage on the go.

  With its irregular S shape, the Backnobber II does not require the user to reach behind his back to use the tool. This one-size-fits-all massager helps to relieve stress and tension caused by injuries, physical stress and chronic conditions like arthritis and bursitis, according to MassageTools.com. The Backnobber II is ideal for people wanting a massage on the go. A special locking mechanism allows it to be taken apart, fitting easily into a standard-size briefcase or overnight bag. The Backnobber II is created by the Pressure Positive Company and costs between 29 and 40 dollars.

Bongers

• Bongers provide a Shiatsu-like massage for relieving shoulder tension.

  Bongers are a modern take on a traditional Japanese massage tool. Designed to give a Shiatsu-like massage, Bongers are comprised of a rubber ball situated at the end of a flexible metal shaft with a wooden handle. The springing action drums out tension in the shoulders while improving circulation. According to Active Forever.com, "the penetrating impact provides a stimulating shock-wave through the whole muscle, relieving tightness and soreness almost instantly." Bongers cost between 14 and 25 dollars.

Thumper MiniPro 2 Massager

• The percussive action of the Thumper MiniPro 2 is equivalent to a professional massage.

  The Thumper MiniPro 2 Massager provides a professional-quality massage for the neck and shoulders. Running between 189 and 229 dollars, the Thumper does not require the user to apply extra pressure. The percussive waves travel through the muscles with three available speeds. Lying in the fetal position allows the user to access hard-to-reach areas like the lower shoulders and upper back. The Thumper MiniPro 2 weighs three pounds and is designed for both small and large muscles.

Tennis Ball

• Tennis balls can be used as shoulder massage tools, finding and triggering pressure points.

  The tennis ball is a cheap little-known shoulder massage tool that can be found almost anywhere. SaveYourself.ca notes that "the goal of tennis ball massage is to achieve a release by applying just the right amount of pressure: enough to do some good, but not enough to irritate the knot." Positioning the tennis ball between the wall or floor and the shoulder, the user can identify pressure points, relieving tension.