Are Massage Guns Good for You?
The massage gun has been touted as a miracle device that can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion. But are massage guns good for you?
Well, the answer isn’t quite so simple. While there are definitely some benefits to using a massage gun, there are also some potential risks. So, let’s take a closer look at both sides of the issue.
The Benefits of Massage Guns
There is some evidence that massage guns can be beneficial. A small study published in 2019 found that massage gun therapy was associated with reduced muscle soreness and improved range of motion after exercise. Another study found that massage gun therapy was effective in reducing shoulder pain.
There are a few key benefits that massage guns can offer.
- First, they can help to improve your blood circulation. When you massage a muscle, you’re essentially helping to push blood through that area. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Second, massage guns can help to release knots and trigger points. Knots are areas of tightness in your muscles that can cause pain. Trigger points are similar, but they refer to specific areas that cause pain when pressure is applied.
- Third, massage guns can help to improve your range of motion. This is because they can help to loosen up tight muscles and improve flexibility.
- Finally, massage guns can be a great way to reduce stress and tension. If you’re feeling stressed out, a massage gun can help to relax your muscles and improve your mood.
The Risks of Massage Guns
While massage guns do offer some potential benefits, there are also some risks that you should be aware of. One case report describes a man who developed a blood clot after using a massage gun on his leg. Another case report describes a woman who developed bruising after using a massage gun on her back.
Details on these risks are as follows:
- One of the biggest risks is that massage guns can actually cause more pain and irritation if used incorrectly. This is because they can aggravate existing injuries or even cause new ones.
- It’s important to only use a massage gun on healthy tissue. If you have any sort of injury, it’s best to avoid using a massage gun altogether.
- Another risk to be aware of is that massage guns can cause bruising. This is because they can break blood vessels and capillaries, causing them to leak into the surrounding tissue.
- One study found that massage guns can cause microtrauma to the muscles. This means that they can actually cause small tears in the muscle fibers.
- If you’re pregnant, you should avoid using massage guns altogether. This is because there is a risk that they can cause placental abruption, which is when the placenta detach from the uterine wall.
- Finally, massage guns can also spread bacteria and viruses if they’re not properly disinfected between uses.
Massage Guns Versus Massage Therapy
It’s important to note that massage guns are not the same as massage therapy. Massage therapists are trained professionals who know how to properly massage your muscles without causing pain or irritation. Let’s break down a comparison of massage guns vs. massage therapy, starting with massage therapy.
Massage Therapy Pros vs. Massage Guns
- Massage therapists are trained professionals who know how to massage your muscles without causing pain or irritation.
- Using massage therapy can help to improve your blood circulation, release knots and trigger points, and improve your range of motion.
- Traditional massage therapy can also be a great way to reduce stress and tension.
Massage Therapy Cons vs. Massage Guns
- Massage therapy can be expensive.
- You may need to see a massage therapist multiple times to see results.
Massage Gun Pros vs. Massage Therapy
- Massage guns are less expensive than massage therapy.
- You can use massage guns at home, so you don’t need to make an appointment.
- A good massage gun can offer some of the same benefits as massage therapy, such as improved blood circulation, reduced inflammation, and improved range of motion.
Massage Gun Cons vs. Massage Therapy
- Massage guns can cause pain and irritation if used incorrectly.
- Using massage guns can cause bruising.
- Massage guns can cause microtrauma to the muscles.
- Massage guns can spread bacteria and viruses if they’re not properly disinfected between uses
If you’re considering using a massage gun, it’s important to speak with your doctor first. They can help you decide if a massage gun is right for you and help you to find the right one for your needs.
Best Massage Guns to Buy
If you’re looking for a massage gun, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to make sure that you choose a massage gun that is comfortable to use. Second, you’ll want to make sure that the massage gun has different speed settings so that you can control the intensity of the massage. Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the massage gun comes with a variety of attachments so that you can target different areas of the body.
Here are a few massage guns that we recommend:
Theragun Elite
This massage gun is lightweight and ergonomic, making it comfortable to use. It has a brushless motor that is quiet and powerful, and it comes with a carrying case for easy transport.
Hypervolt Plus
This massage gun is quiet and powerful, and it comes with 5 attachments for targeted relief. It also has a carrying case for easy transport.
- Plus up your game. The Hypervolt Plus set the standard for premium percussion massage devices. Seriously strong, aesthetically sleek, and unbelievably quiet - it's the added boost your muscles need.
- Hours of power. With 30% more power than the original, the Hypervolt Plus delivers three speeds of long-lasting and powerful percussion.
- Sensor technology. The Hypervolt Plus features a patented pressure sensor with three levels, giving you a digital indication of how much pressure you're applying.
Theragun Pro
This massage gun is powerful and comes with 6 attachments for targeted relief. It also has a carrying case and a 2-year warranty.
- Athlete Approved: Handheld Percussion massage gun by industry leader Therabody, designed for optimal deep tissue and muscle soreness relief
- Top Ranked Massage Gun: Bluetooth enabled, with six easy-to-clean Theragun attachments, and QuietForce Technology providing elite yet silent performance
- Ergonomic Design: Patented Theragun Triangle ergonomic handle allows for the most flexible positioning while reducing stress on the wrists, hands, and arms. leaving you fully refreshed after every use
Ekrin Athletics B37 (My Top Fitness “Top Choice”)
This massage gun is quiet and powerful, and it comes with 4 attachments for targeted relief. It also has a carrying case.
Read the full review article “Ekrin Athletics B37 Massage Gun Review” to learn more and get 20% off on checkout with code “Ekrin20”.
Conclusion
So, are massage guns good for you? Overall, the answer is yes – but there are some risks that you need to be aware of. If used correctly, massage guns can offer a number of benefits, including improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and improved range of motion. However, it’s important to only use them on healthy tissue, and to avoid using them if you’re pregnant or have any sort of injury. Additionally, massage guns can cause bruising, so be sure to use them with care. Finally, remember to disinfect them between uses to avoid spreading bacteria or viruses.
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