From the Guidelines
Massage guns are medically indicated for muscle soreness, fibromyalgia, and arthritis, but require caution and proper usage to avoid exacerbating symptoms. When using a massage gun for these conditions, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to minimize risks and maximize benefits. For muscle soreness, use a massage gun on low to medium settings for 1-2 minutes per muscle group, avoiding bony areas and focusing on larger muscle groups like quadriceps, hamstrings, and back muscles 1. For fibromyalgia, start with the lowest setting for no more than 30 seconds per area, avoiding tender points and stopping immediately if pain increases. For arthritis, use only on surrounding muscles, never directly on inflamed joints, with the lowest setting for 30-60 seconds 1. General guidelines include starting with lower intensity, keeping sessions under 10 minutes total, avoiding bruised areas, bones, and joints, and maintaining proper hydration. These recommendations work because percussion therapy increases blood flow, reduces muscle tension, and can help release myofascial trigger points, as supported by the American College of Rheumatology guideline for exercise, rehabilitation, diet, and additional integrative interventions for rheumatoid arthritis 1. However, the vibration may aggravate sensitive conditions like fibromyalgia or inflamed joints in arthritis if used improperly. Always consult a healthcare provider before using a massage gun with these conditions, especially with severe symptoms or recent injuries. Some key points to consider when using a massage gun include:
- Starting with lower intensity and gradually increasing as needed
- Avoiding bruised areas, bones, and joints
- Maintaining proper hydration
- Keeping sessions under 10 minutes total
- Consulting a healthcare provider before use, especially with severe symptoms or recent injuries. It is crucial to prioritize caution and proper usage to ensure the safe and effective use of massage guns for these conditions.
From the Research
Medical Indications for Massage Gun Use
- Massage guns may be medically indicated for patients with muscle soreness, as they can help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion 2, 3.
- For patients with fibromyalgia, massage guns may be used as an adjunct therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve symptoms, as part of a multidisciplinary approach 4, 5.
- In patients with arthritis, massage guns may be used to reduce muscle soreness and improve range of motion, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness 5, 2.
Guidelines for Massage Gun Use
- Massage guns can be used pre- or post-activity to improve flexibility and reduce muscle soreness 2, 3.
- However, caution is recommended when using massage guns immediately after strenuous exercise, as they may increase muscle soreness in the short term 6.
- Massage guns can be used as part of a treatment plan for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, in combination with other therapies such as exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acupuncture 4, 5.
Potential Benefits and Limitations
- Massage guns may improve short-term range of motion, flexibility, and recovery-related outcomes, but their use in strength, balance, acceleration, agility, and explosive activities is not recommended 2.
- Massage guns can help reduce experiences of musculoskeletal pain, but more research is needed to confirm their long-term effectiveness 3.
- The use of massage guns should be individualized and based on patient preferences and motivations, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan 5.