Published research has examined localized superficial heat for non-specific neck discomfort, including localized heating of the upper-trapezius area. Heat is a long-standing, widely used self-management option for everyday neck tension.
Wilfling D, El-Allawy A, Muche-Borowski C, Kötter T. Systematic review, Journal of Pain Research.
Petrofsky J, Laymon M, Lee H. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2020;33:21–28.