The massage gun is a tool commonly used today to improve muscle soreness and mobility, as well as aid in muscle recovery. The fitness and health industry has quickly adopted a variety of massage guns as a growing “fad.”. Yet what exactly are massage guns and do they actually work? Simple relief may be as close as a small device that fits in the palm of your hand!
How does the massage gun work?
A massage gun resembles a drill and sounds like one as well, and is a small handheld device with a hose attached. Muscle pain can be relieved with massage guns that have various pieces and speeds available. You have a wide range of brands to Buy Massage Gun, ranging from $40 to $500.1
A Buy Massage Gun uses percussion (vibration) therapy. Foam rollers, lacrosse balls, trigger point balls, and massages can achieve the same benefits as massage guns, although a massage gun can be targeted to a specific area if needed. Massage guns stimulate blood flow to the targeted area, which can reduce inflammation and muscle tension.2 They can be used before or after a workout, based on the individual’s needs. Massage guns can be used by almost anyone, but they are most popular with endurance athletes who want to relax sore and tight muscles after their workouts. There are different attachments for each massage gun that target specific areas of the body.
How effective are massage guns?
Massage guns have been shown to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and increase short-term muscle length, according to a study. DOMS can cause muscle soreness for 24 – 72 hours after an intense workout.2 By massaging the muscles used in the workout, you can reduce the amount of muscle soreness, therefore assisting in muscle recovery.
A study by Konrad et al. Demonstrated that vibration therapy (also known as percussive therapy) can be effective on calf muscles. A five-minute percussive therapy session on these muscles resulted in a significant increase in ankle dorsiflexion, meaning the ability to pull the toes up towards the shins. Additionally, the study found no significant improvement in the power or torque of the calf muscles.3 The study illustrates the effectiveness of percussive therapy and how it can improve the short-term length of a muscle.
The amount of research that has shown improvement in speed, endurance, or torque is minimal to nonexistent. As a result, percussive therapy cannot be said to directly improve athletic performance.4 Depending on what your goal is with the use of a massage gun, it can be very effective. Muscle length can be improved and muscle soreness can be reduced with massage guns.
Pain and Physical Therapy
You should always listen to your body before beginning to use a new tool for muscle recovery. Consult a physical therapist if you’re not sure whether massage guns are appropriate for your pain.
Using a massage gun can help relieve muscle soreness, but it is not always the solution for injuries and pain. Seek the advice of a medical professional as soon as possible if you notice abnormal pains. Athletico offers Free Assessments in most states. Our team will assess your pain and recommend a treatment plan. You can schedule a free assessment in-clinic or virtually using Telehealth.
