So percussive massage, including massage guns, could help sore muscles recover faster.Ī small 2020 study in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that 16 male volunteers reported increased range of motion after a 5-minute treatment with a massage gun on their calf muscles. This increase in blood flow can flush out metabolites like lactic acid and calcium, which cause muscle contractions and pain after exercise, says Shashank Davé, DO, a physiatrist at Indiana University Health and associate professor of clinical physical medicine and rehabilitation at IU School of Medicine. Vibration from massage guns increases blood flow to the painful area, according to Julie Sherry, PT, DPT, a physical therapist with UW Health in Verona, Wisc. When lighter techniques like stretching and gentle massage don’t improve symptoms, a more vigorous approach might be necessary. “What’s unique about these guns is that they go much deeper than the handheld massagers used to go, so you really feel it,” says Michael Fredericson, MD, a professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Stanford University. In the meantime, here’s what you need to know if you’re considering one. While some experts say massage guns can be an effective way to relieve muscle pain, it’s important to understand their benefits, limitations, and key features before you buy one.Ĭonsumer Reports is in the process of testing a variety of massage guns, with results expected later this year.
Competitors soon jumped into the market as a wide range of people from pro athletes to casual runners started turning to the devices in a bid to go beyond foam rollers for DIY athletic recovery. The devices are often shaped a bit like a gun, with a pulsating tip that repeatedly digs into your muscles.Ĭhiropractor Jason Wersland developed one after a motorcycle accident and later founded Theragun, which introduced its first mass-market model in 2016. Massage guns are one increasingly popular do-it-yourself option. But if regular massages are too costly or you want to knead out the tension between appointments, you may be searching for a way to achieve similar results at home. Whether you’re sore from your last workout or stiff from sitting in an office chair all day, getting a massage can be a reliable way to relieve the pain.
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