Tradition often dictates that hands are the primary tools of the trade. Yet, as the demands on therapists grow, so does the need for innovative solutions that improves client care and reduces therapist fatigue.
Enter the massage gun—a revolutionary handheld device that delivers precise, percussive therapy. This powerful tool targets deep tissue effectively and also alleviates the physical strain on therapists, making it an invaluable addition to any practice.
If you’re looking to elevate your massage sessions and preserve your well-being, it’s time to explore the remarkable benefits of incorporating a massage gun into your toolkit.
1. A Massage Gun Can Go Deep
We spoke to massage therapists, and they say they use a massage gun for spot treatments on tissue that needs something extra.
“I use them only for deeper work, and they are very effective when someone is extremely tight like they have a muscle contracture that’s really tense,” said massage therapist Dee Edra Walker Vickers, LMT, BCTMB, M.Ed, adding, “it’s almost a deep vibration, and it’s helpful to be able to get in there and release that deep, tense muscle.”
This deep, percussive effect is achieved because of the massage guns’ design: like a little jackhammer, it delivers bursts of vibration very rapidly. In fact, percussive therapy, such as that provided by massage guns, can reduce muscle soreness by 30% more than traditional massage techniques.¹
2. Clients Love Massage Guns
A massage gun is a percussive instrument, meaning it puts vibration into the body. This vibration helps break up adhesions and feels great. For the bariatric client who may not be entirely satisfied with hands only, for example, a massage gun provides deep therapy, said Mack. Plus, massage guns generally don’t plug in—they use a rechargeable battery—so a cord won’t drag on the client.
“The customers really like it, they say good things about it,” said Vickers. The Hypervolt2 from Hyperice features QuietGlide technology that makes the gun what the company calls whisper quiet.
“The client will get so much more out of each treatment [when a massage gun is used],” said Timalee Snow, LMT, education manager at Therabody, maker of the Theragun. “We know through scientific research that percussive therapy provides a longer-lasting, deeper treatment than manual therapy alone.”
3. A Massage Gun Provides Self-Care
Do you ever experience pain or tightness in your own body? Have you developed trigger points in your shoulders, arms, or back? Do your hands or forearms sometimes hurt?
A massage gun addresses these complaints. With multiple settings, a massage gun is customizable for your desired level of depth and vibration. It reaches any area of your body and provides pain relief and relaxation when you are between receiving massage sessions.
Massage guns come in different weights with many settings. The ergonomic design is typical, making a massage gun easy to hold and use on both clients and yourself.
4. A Massage Gun Can Save Your Hands
Using a massage gun relieves stress on the massage therapist’s body, especially when clients ask you to go deeper.
“I’ve been a therapist for nearly 20 years, and this is a good way to save your hands if you have some very dense tension going on,” said Vickers. “It’s a great way to relieve stress on your own body.” The massage therapist chooses where and for how long to use the massage gun.
“There are multiple attachments and speeds to allow full control,” explained massage therapist Sarah Mack, LMT. “The gun gets to one area in 10 minutes versus 30 minutes of therapy.”The PR Pro Advantage Percussion Massage Device sold by Infinity features a light, compact design that is helpful for the onsite or mobile massage therapist.
“I have found through my own experience of more than 20 years. Eventually, our built-in “tools” start to break down,” said Theragun’s Snow. “Being a massage therapist is very physically demanding. By simply incorporating percussive therapy throughout my massages, I have had the opportunity to work in this field for much longer—and it allows me to be more effective for my clients.”
Insurance Coverage for Using a Massage Gun
Ensure Your Practice is Protected
Are you a massage therapist including tools like massage guns into your sessions? Protect yourself and your clients by making sure your professional liability insurance covers these tools. Most professional liability insurance policies include product liability coverage, safeguarding you against any adverse reactions or injuries resulting from the use of massage guns.
Don’t leave your practice vulnerable. Contact your insurance provider today to confirm that your policy includes this essential coverage. For more detailed guidance on insurance and liability protection, visit Massage Magazine’s Insurance Plus.Stay protected, stay professional. Secure your practice’s future now! Contact us!
Author Bio:
Karen Menehan is MASSAGE Magazine’s editor-in-chief—print and digital. Her recent articles include “Massage in the Hospital: At Work on the Pain-Care Team” and “Your Wellness Roadmap for the New Year: 2022 Trends.” With over 20 years of experience in the massage industry, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into the latest trends and practices in massage therapy.
FAQs
What are the benefits of using a massage gun?
Massage guns provide deep tissue therapy through rapid percussive movements. They help reduce muscle soreness, improve blood flow, break up adhesions, and promote relaxation. They are also beneficial for self-care. Allowing therapists to work on their own muscular pain and tension between sessions.
Can massage guns replace traditional massage techniques?
Massage guns are a great supplement to traditional massage techniques but not a complete replacement. They boost the effectiveness of manual therapy by reaching deeper tissues quickly and efficiently. However, the skill and intuition of a therapist’s hands can’t be fully replicated by a machine.
Are massage guns safe to use for everyone?
While massage guns are generally safe, they should be used with caution. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis, osteoporosis, or recent surgeries, should consult with a healthcare professional before using a massage gun. Proper training and understanding of how to use the device are essential to avoid injury.
How do I choose the right massage gun for my needs?
When choosing a massage gun, consider factors like power, noise level, battery life, weight, and attachments. Higher power models are better for deep tissue work, while quieter models are preferable for a relaxing environment. Different attachments target specific muscle groups more effectively.
What areas of the body can be treated with a massage gun?
Massage guns are used on most areas of the body, including the back, shoulders, neck, arms, legs, and feet. However, they should be used carefully around bony areas, sensitive spots, and joints. Avoid using the massage gun on areas with injuries, inflammation, or medical implants.
Data Sources
- The Effect Of Percussive Therapy On Musculoskeletal Performance And Experiences Of Pain, https://doaj.org/article/c7de537d83eb40779e3aaaca35e1a1cc