Massage Guns- How helpful are they?

Handheld percussive massage treatment or vibration therapy has gained popularity in recent years. There are now numerous places you can find these from brands such as Theragun, TimTam, Hyperice, RENPHO, Homedics and more. It is important to know a little bit about them before deciding if this is right for you.

Massage guns offer either percussive therapy or vibration therapy. The main difference between the two types is the amplitude of the device or simply how far the head of the device will travel. Devices at a higher speed can feel much more intense than those at a lower speed. Professional grade guns can reach up to 16mm in depth, which is generally recommended for those who are physically active as they may require a deeper massage for tissue release. Whereas vibration therapy devices are less intense and suitable for regular uses.

Price of these devices ranges from $50 up to $900 reaching varying speeds and depths. Generally speaking, higher end models have more attention to detail with a much quieter sound, more attachments to choose from that differ in their intensity and shape, a softer head and they commonly reach a greater speed and depth. Other factors to look for when choosing a device is battery life, weight of the device and warranty.

Do they actually work?

It is hypothesised that massage guns have the ability to decrease muscle tension, improve flexibility and accelerate recovery, but do they actually work? Currently there is very little evidence on their effectiveness, but it is believed that they work by encouraging blood flow to the area and in turn reducing lactic acid, inflammation and muscle tension. It has been shown to be an effective tool at preventing Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness (DOMS). However, there is little evidence to prove it as an effective tool for tissue healing.

Massage guns may also have the potential to make your injury worse. The use of these devices on broken bones, sprains, strains and areas of swelling can further damage the tissue if they are used incorrectly. Delaying healing time and increasing pain levels.

Additionally, you may end up using the massage gun on an area that is experiencing referred pain and not targeting the source of pain.

Chances are most people using these massage guns are not trained in massage, increasing the chance that the gun is not being used correctly. Massage therapists are licenced professionals with years of training in human anatomy and the body’s function, it is important to remember this when buying your massage gun and important to consult a health care professional before use.

It is recommended that massage guns not be used on those experiencing (but not limited to) the following:

·      Pacemakers

·      Hypertension

·      Pregnancy

·      Tumours

·      Wounds

·      Recent myocardial infarction

·      Recent fractures

·      If you have a history of blood clots

·      Osteoporosis

·      Autoimmune conditions

·      Muscular dystrophy or other muscular disorders

Overall, while massage guns may feel great there is a lack of evidence on how beneficial they really are. It is important to do your research into the right massage gun before purchasing and important to consult a health care professional before its use.