Best TENS Units for Neck & Shoulder Pain

Desk work killing your neck? We tested 8 TENS devices for tension relief, muscle knots, and chronic shoulder pain.

✓ Office-Friendly✓ Portable Options✓ Tension Headache Relief
💆 Quick Answer

Our top pick for neck and shoulder pain is the FitRx Electrode Wireless Massager - Rechargeable TENS Muscle — rated 4.5★ by 4,933 users. Its 2-channel output lets you target both the neck and shoulders simultaneously.

View at eBay — $24.99

Top Picks for Neck & Shoulder Pain

🏆 Best Overall
FitRx Electrode Wireless Massager - Rechargeable TENS Muscle

FitRx Electrode Wireless Massager - Rechargeable TENS Muscle

FitRx
4.5 (4,933 reviews)

Top rated for upper body pain relief

2 channels8 programsBattery
📱 Best Portable
3-in-1 TENS Muscle Stimulator, EMS Massage Machine with 30 I

3-in-1 TENS Muscle Stimulator, EMS Massage Machine with 30 I

detects motiond
4.9 (214 reviews)

Use discreetly at work or while traveling

2 channels8 programsRechargeable
💰 Best Budget
3-in-1 TENS Muscle Stimulator, EMS Massage Machine with 30 I

3-in-1 TENS Muscle Stimulator, EMS Massage Machine with 30 I

detects motiond
4.9 (214 reviews)

Effective relief without breaking the bank

2 channels8 programsRechargeable

Compare All 8 Neck/Shoulder TENS Units

ProductRatingChannelsProgramsPortablePrice
Four Channel TENS Muscle Stimulator - 24 Modes EMS Massage MMICHPONG
4.7(616)48$20.89View →
TENS Muscle Stimulator, Wireless TENS Pain Relief, Portable HENITAR
4.5(648)28$17.99View →
INSMART TENS Rechargeable Muscle Stimulator EMS Dual ChannelINSMART
4.3(619)28$28.97View →
Wireless Neck Massager, Rechargeable Mini Massager TENS EMS Clever sprouts
4.4(477)26$18.99View →
Easy@Home Rechargeable TENS Muscle Stimulator, 16 Modes, 20 Easy@Home
4.4(440)28$29.99View →
Wetene TENS Rechargeable Muscle Stimulator EMS Dual Channel Wetene
4.6(312)28$24.99View →
3-in-1 TENS Muscle Stimulator, EMS Massage Machine with 30 Idetects motiond
4.9(214)28$19.99View →

📍 Electrode Placement for Neck & Shoulder

Safe Placement Zones

Upper Trapezius (Neck/Shoulder Junction)

Place pads on the muscle bulk between neck and shoulder — the area that gets tight from desk work. One pad on each side.

Shoulder Blade Area

Position pads on or around the shoulder blades for deep muscle knots. Great for rhomboid pain.

Upper Back

Place pads between the shoulder blades and spine for postural pain relief.

🚫 NEVER place pads on the front or sides of your neck — this can affect your carotid artery and heart rhythm.

Office Worker Tips

  • Take breaks — Use TENS during your lunch break for midday relief
  • Choose wireless/portable units for discreet use at your desk
  • Combine with stretching for best results
  • Use lower intensity if wearing under clothing
📖 View Full Placement Chart →

Common Neck & Shoulder Conditions

💻 Tech Neck

From looking at screens. Place pads on upper traps. Use 15-20 min sessions, 2-3x daily.

😰 Tension Headaches

Often caused by neck tension. Target upper shoulders/neck base. Low-moderate frequency.

🏋️ Muscle Knots

Place pads directly around the knot. Use EMS mode if available for deeper penetration.

❄️ Frozen Shoulder

Surround the shoulder joint with pads. Combine with gentle movement during treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I place TENS pads for neck pain?

For neck pain, place electrode pads on the trapezius muscles — the large muscles running from your neck to your shoulders. Position one pad on each side, about 2 inches from your spine. Never place pads on the front of your neck or over the carotid artery.

Can TENS help with tension headaches?

Yes, TENS can help tension headaches by relaxing the neck and upper trapezius muscles that often trigger them. Place pads on the upper shoulders/neck area (not on the head). Use low to moderate frequency for 20-30 minutes. Many users report significant headache relief.

Is TENS safe to use on the neck?

TENS is safe for the back and sides of the neck, but never place electrodes on the front of your neck. Avoid the carotid artery (sides of the front neck) and throat area. Stick to the trapezius muscles, upper back, and shoulder blade regions.

What TENS settings work for shoulder pain?

For acute shoulder pain, use higher frequencies (80-120 Hz) for quick relief. For chronic shoulder tension and knots, lower frequencies (2-10 Hz) help release endorphins and relax muscle tissue. Moderate intensity that feels like a strong massage works best.

Ready to Fix Your Neck & Shoulder Pain?

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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: Never place TENS electrodes on the front of your neck. Consult a doctor if you have heart conditions. See our full disclaimer.