What is a massage gun and what does it do?

Massage guns are a popular tool today to help improve muscle soreness and mobility, as well as aid in muscle recovery. There are various brands of massage guns that are quickly becoming a growing "fad" in the health and fitness industry. But what exactly do massage guns do, and do they really work?

What is a massage gun?

A massage gun is a small handheld device that looks and sounds like a drill. Most massage guns have a variety of parts and speeds that can be used to help relieve muscle pain. There are various brands.

The massage gun uses a type of percussion (vibration) therapy. Foam rolling, lacrosse, trigger balls, or massage can provide the same results as a massage gun, but the massage gun can target very specific areas if desired. The massage gun increases blood flow to specific areas, helping to reduce inflammation and muscle tension. 2 They can be used before or after workouts according to the specific needs of the individual. While massage guns are designed for anyone, they are most popular with endurance athletes looking to loosen tight and sore muscles after a workout. Each massage gun comes with different attachments that can be aimed directly at specific parts of the body.

Do massage guns really work?

Studies have shown that massage guns are effective in reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and improving short-term muscle length. DOMS can cause muscle soreness for 24 to 72 hours after strenuous exercise.

Using the massage gun on the muscles you use during your workout can help your muscles recover by reducing the amount of muscle soreness.

In one study, the use of vibration (or tapping) therapy for the plantar flexors, or muscles also called calves, was evaluated. After a five-minute shock therapy session on these muscles, the study showed a significant increase in the ability to dorsiflex the ankle, or pull the toes up toward the shin. This study demonstrates the healing power of shock therapy and how it improves short-term muscle length.

Depending on what you're using your massage gun for, it can be very effective. The massage gun is ideal for improving muscle length and reducing muscle soreness.