Other therapists and patients constantly ask me the same questions: “Are massage guns any good?” Is it safe to use one on me at home? Yes, to both of these inquiries, and you may, of course, use one on yourself at home. However, there are several important details to be aware of before purchasing one and attempting to use it on yourself at home. These crucial facts include what they do, what they are useful for, and, most importantly, which one is the best.
There is such a dizzying array of Massage Gun and home massagers available that it is easy to become lost and confused about which one is ideal for you. I’ve produced this article to help you through the maze of massage guns on the market to give some direction. I built this list of my top 5 based on their use. Thus it is by no means complete or inclusive of all of them.
First and foremost, a disclaimer. If you are unclear about operating any of these gadgets, do not use them. Do not force the device into your or another person’s body since you run the risk of inflicting more harm, bruising, or tissue damage. Do not apply it on your genitals, head, eyes, mouth, jaw, nose, cheeks (or any other part of your face), or particularly sensitive portions of your body (I’m not sure why you would or why I should have to warn you this). No, they are not wicked toys for any naughty occasion. Should not use it on active bleeding areas, cuts, wounds, burns, bruises, or after surgery on the surgical region or incision site.
Massage guns by Muscle Massagers Australia employ mild vibrations on the skin to alleviate muscular tension and induce relaxation1. They do not promote tissue repair, hasten injury recovery, or prevent injuries from occurring. Read more about ultrasonic teeth cleaning.
However, they do not improve injury healing or decrease recovery time from an injury (For example, ligament or tendon rupture, muscle tears, burns, fractures, or cut/wound healing.) Before you get too heated up over this comment, please remember that I’m referring to true tissue mending and remodeling after a trauma. Nobody, not even pharmaceuticals, can speed up tissue repair and recovery. Medication, massage, and application of ice to the damaged location can all help reduce discomfort, muscular spasms, and even swelling following a trauma, such as a torn muscle. However, these therapy methods focus on symptom management rather than healing and restoration. The most important thing I want everyone reading this to understand and remember is one simple fact: your body heals at whatever rate your body recovers. Some people recover rapidly, while others recover slowly. Diet, lifestyle, smoking/vaping/nicotine use, alcohol, and obesity all have an impact on how your body recovers. We have previously explored the effects of nicotine on recovery and the stages of healing in-depth in previous blog entries, so click on the links to read these blogs for more information.
