Are shiatsu foot massagers actually better than vibrating ones?

Across the specialist communities we read, particularly r/BuyItForLife and r/PlantarFasciitis, the consensus is that shiatsu kneading models with heat tend to provide more lasting relief than basic vibrating units, though they cost noticeably more. Vibrating models like the MedMassager have a dedicated following for circulation and neuropathy, but for general soreness and plantar fasciitis, shiatsu is the more frequently recommended format.