In short, absolutely – yes! Your muscles are used day in, day out – whether you’re doing 10k steps a day, or you’ve just run a marathon. Yet i wonder how many times a week you think to massage your muscles, to relieve them of any aches, pains or stiffness? This is where the handheld body massager, or massage gun comes in.
Massage, whether done yourself, by your partner, or professionally, is a great way to get rid of any stress or aches in your muscles. Unless you’re looking for deep tissue sports massage therapy from a professional, you can get most of the benefits of massage at home with a handheld body massager.
So, what are the benefits of investing in a handheld body massager?
What Is A Massage Gun?
Deep tissue massage is a technique mainly used to treat muscle strains and sports injuries, serious muscle tension. How does it work? A deep tissue muscle massager involves applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. It successfully breaks up scar tissue that forms following an injury and reduces tension in muscles and tissue. At the beginning of a deep tissue massage, lighter pressure is generally applied to warm up and prepare the muscles.
Does A Handheld Massager Really Work?
A handheld massager, or deep tissue massager, has many psychological and physical benefits when used often. Not only will it help your muscles to relax, but massage like this also helps to treat any muscle aches and pain, and can improve stiffness in the muscles.
The quick answer to this question is – yes, they’re a great bit of equipment to have at home. A handheld massage gun focuses in more on problem areas. Helping to alleviate those aches and pain that often come from exercise.
Of course, if you can go to a massage therapist every now and then as well, that would be the best combination. A massage therapist will be able to diagnose your aches and pains better than that of a massage gun. Suggesting ways to help you avoid these issues going forwards. However, for little niggles here and there. Or for general day to day maintenance, a handheld massager is perfect.
The Benefits Of Using A Massage Gun
- Relaxing
- Relieves muscle pain
- Can help to improve sleep
- Reduces lower back aches and pains
- Relieves soreness in the muscles
- Improves blood circulation
- Can improve the look and feel of skin
- Reduces cellulite and dimpled skin
Features Of A Handheld Massager
Of course, all handheld massagers will be slightly different but most will have some combination of differing speeds, intensity levels and a variety of inter-changeable attachment heads. Many of which offering between 3 and 5 heads for different massage needs.
We would NEVER recommend you use any of these massager heads on or over your spine.
The Bullet Attachment
This attachment is designed for deep tissue massage. It’s narrow, almost bullet like shape will get much deeper into the muscle tissue. This one would be great on areas such as the glutes where there’s more fat and tissue to get through before reaching the muscle fibres.
The Ball Attachment
The ball attachment is generally made out of a softer foam, however, it can also come as a harder plastic version so look out for this when purchasing. The ball attachment is the one most people will opt for as you have a lot more control over the intensity. Simply by tilting the ball, you can adjust the pressure given to that muscle. Having the ability to adjust this means it’s perfect for more tender areas such as your arms, feet and shoulders.
The Fork Attachment
Best used on large, tight muscles, for deep tissue. The fork attachment is great on areas such as the quads and hamstrings as it provides more coverage across the larger muscle area. Similar to the bullet in what it does, except this one has two bullets, so you get more for your efforts.
The Flat Head Attachment
Used mainly for medium to large sized muscles that are feeling sore, or tender. The flat top means it’s great for larger areas while the flat top helps to distribute the force more evenly. A less specific area of focus.
The Flat Padded Attachment
The padded attachment works best on more sensitive, or areas with more bone than muscle. Around the neck, shoulders, forearms and along near the shin bone. The padding offers some give, incase you do accidentally hit bone!
How To Choose The Handheld Massager For You
This really depends on what you want it for. There are so many available, it’s really down to personal preference. We would however advise you go with a cordless one as these are the easiest to use, and most portable.
The next aspect really depends on your budget – although more expensive doesn’t always mean better. The best thing you can do is to look at the reviews before you make a purchase. Things to look out for…
- Warranty
- Battery life
- How many attachments
- Does it come with a carry case
- Is it cordless
FAQ’s
Lastly, here are some frequently asked questions when it comes to handheld body massagers…
How Effective Are Handheld Body Massagers?
If you do a lot of exercise, or you always seem to be suffering from muscle pain, handheld body massagers can be very effective and helpful. They can effectively manage and reduce muscle pain and tension, deep within your muscle fibres. They can also improve blood flow to the muscles, which helps them to relax.
Can A Massage Gun Cause Blood Clots?
It’s not advised you use a massage gun during pregnancy as they are the same as having a deep tissue massage. However, even if not pregnant, due to the increased blood flow, especially in your lower legs, yes, it potentially could cause blood clots.
Can Massage Guns Be Harmful?
Yes, massage guns can be harmful to sprains and ligaments, especially if used incorrectly. If you just have aching muscles, this is unlikely to cause you more damage. However, on more serious injuries, it could cause you more damage.
Are Vibrating Massagers Good For You?
Vibrating massagers, such as handheld body massagers, can not only improve your overall muscle health, they can also improve your flexibility and mobility as well. Handheld body massagers aren’t just for professional athletes, or for those who run marathons, anyone suffering from muscle aches and pain, or mobility issues could also benefit from regular use.
Do Massage Guns Work On Knots In Muscles?
Yes, absolutely! The great thing about a handheld body massager is that you can really focus in on one area that might have knots. The vibrations will also help to loosen the knot, making it easier to get rid of it.
Is It OK To Use A Massager On Your Stomach?
Although it is considered safe to use a massager on your stomach, if done carefully and gently, it’s not recommended. More than anything, it’s not a comfortable or pleasant feeling. Do NOT use one on your stomach if you have had surgery in that area, or are pregnant!
When Should You Use A Massage Gun?
You should only ever use a handheld body massager on your muscles, never over bone, on joints, or on your spine. You can use a massage gun whenever you like, however straight after exercise to help cool down the muscles can be the most effective time.
What Are The Effects Of Vibration Massage?
Vibration massage can help stimulate blood flow to the muscles, relieve muscular tension and decrease any stress in the muscles. These vibrations can also produce a feeling of calm and relaxation.
We hope you found this article of interest. Do let us know what your favourite handheld massager is.
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