The Percussive massagers, also called massage guns, vibration therapy, and percussion massagers, give many benefits of massage without the expense or hassle of visiting the massage therapist. Modern times use it to treat muscle soreness, mobility, and recovery.
The Massage guns have quickly become a growing "fad in the health and fitness industry." There are several brands of massage guns available. But how exactly do they work, and do they actually work? You may find relief by holding a small device in your hand!
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What is a Percussive massager?
This is a new type of massage therapy, and it is truly a game changer in the fitness industry. It shocks muscle fibres with fast, soft blows delivered over a short period of time with a drill-like machine. By tapping rapidly, you can release muscle tension and stimulate blood flow.
How does percussion therapy differ from vibration therapy?
A vibration massager penetrates through vibration, whereas a percussion massager penetrates through mechanical vibration.
How does a massage gun work?
It looks and sounds like a drill and is used to massage muscles. The majority of massage guns have several pieces and speeds that can be used to reduce muscle pain. Various brands are available at prices ranging from $40 to $500.
Vibration (percussion) is a type of therapy used by massage guns. However, a massage gun target a specific area, foam rollers, lacrosse balls, trigger point balls, or massage can offer similar results. Massage guns increase blood flow to particular areas, reducing inflammation and muscle tension.
You can use them prior to or after a workout, depending on the individual's needs. It is commonly known that marathon athletes use massage guns after training to loosen up tight and sore muscles. Several attachments are included with each massage gun to target specific areas of the body.
How effective are massage guns?
It has been demonstrated that massage guns can reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and improve short-term muscle length. Muscle soreness after an intense workout can last 24 - 72 hours. The massage gun can reduce muscle soreness during the activity, thereby aiding in muscle recovery.
The utilization of vibration (or percussive) therapy on the plantar flexor muscle group, also known as the calf muscles. After five minutes of percussive therapy on these muscles, ankle dorsiflexion, or the ability to pull the toes up toward the shins, the study found that increased significantly.
Moreover, the available torque or power of the calf muscles did not show any significant improvement in this study. A survey of this sort shows the effectiveness of percussive therapy in improving a muscle's short-term length.
Research showing an increase in speed, endurance, or torque has been sparse to nonexistent. So, it cannot be said that percussive therapy directly improves athletic performance. With a massage gun, you can achieve a great deal, depending on what your goal is. Massage guns are effective at reducing muscle soreness and improving muscle length.
What are the benefits of using percussion massagers?
The best massager for relieving tight muscles after exercise is a percussion massager, especially if you exercise regularly or you workout intensely.
Percussive guns have also been shown to reduce soreness intensity and duration after a workout.
Percussion massagers have these great benefits:
- Boosts the immune system.
- Circulates fluids from the muscles into the bloodstream.
- Muscles should be relaxed.
- Dissolve adhesions and scar tissue.
- Relaxes muscles and minimizes soreness.
- Reduces the likelihood of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness)
What are the benefits of Percussion massager for sciatica?
Sciatica can be treated with percussion massage by relieving pain, releasing the tension, and increasing blood flow. The Theragun's percussive motion helps remove the pressure on the sciatic nerve and loosen the muscles surrounding it.
Is Percussion massager effective in reducing cellulite?
Frequently, when you perform a percussion massage on the affected area, you can see the cellulite gradually receding because your body is redistributing the fat cells that cause it in the first place. Massage guns are one-time investments that continue to pay off years from now, unlike other solutions.
Are percussion massagers safe to use?
It is safe to use a percussion massager if you are cleared to exercise and don't have an underlying condition that might make massaging muscles difficult for you. Your body has areas you should avoid, particularly your neck and torso - both of which contain vital organs. Be careful not to stretch the bone, so avoid bony areas of your body. Percussion massagers should be used the right way.
The quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calf, and upper trap muscles, as well as your quadriceps and hamstrings, should be massaged with massage guns.
- Approximately two minutes should be spent massaging the targeted muscle.
- Avoid using a massage gun on the front or neck of your body.
- You should avoid massaging bony areas, such as the front of your shins, the tops of your feet, the top of your head, and any joints.
What is the recommended frequency of using a percussion massager?
Percussion is used in massage guns to penetrate deep into muscles and increase blood flow. The machines can be used on any muscle group for up to two minutes for efficient recovery. The massage gun can also be used 2-3 times daily for various warm-ups and cool-downs.
Pain and Physical Therapy
If you are starting to use a new tool for muscle recovery, it is always important to listen to your body. Consider consulting a physical therapist before using a massage gun if you're not sure if it's right for you. Even though massage guns can help ease muscle soreness, they are not always practical for treating an injury or pain. In the event of any unusual aches or pains, you should seek medical advice.
A Free Assessment in different cities is available in most states without an appointment. The physician team will assess your pain and plan a treatment program for you. There are also Platform available that provides free assessments in the clinic and virtually.