What are the disadvantages of a massage gun?

Author: Hortense Hodkiewicz  |  Last update: Sunday, December 28, 2025

Massage Gun Safety
  • Massage guns aren't ideal for sprains or strains because they may be too intense. ...
  • Overusing the device can put too much stress on fascia and muscles and may cause an injury.
  • The device puts pressure on muscles, but the pressure you apply could put too much force on an area.

When should you not use a massage gun?

Do not use a massage gun: If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, iron deficiency, kidney disease, blood clotting disease, or any other condition that may make it easier to damage your cells.

Does a massage gun have side effects?

There are downsides to massage guns, including the risk of aggravating injuries or other chronic injuries. This risk is increased if the individual is using the massage gun incorrectly. These risks can be remedied through training on the proper use of massage guns.

Where to not use a massage gun?

So, what areas should you avoid, and are some places off-limits ``You want to ensure to stay away from bony areas like the ankles, collarbones, hands and tops of the feet, visible blood vessels on the surface of the skin, sensitive nerves, and ribs/ organs,'' Wheeldon says.

Are massage guns actually good for you?

Massage guns can help to 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.

10 Massage Gun Dangers!! NEVER Use Like This!

Do massage guns release toxins?

Massage guns help to get rid of those toxins, which promotes quicker muscle recovery. Massage guns are beneficial when you use them on yourself. Yes, you could have a trainer do it for you, but by using them on yourself, you will know exactly where your trouble areas are, and you can help your healing that much better.

Can I use my massage gun everyday?

While you can use a massage gun daily, Dr. Aeder recommends limiting use to two to three times per day. That should give you enough relief to help you stay active and ease sore muscles with movement throughout the day.

Does a massage gun help lose belly fat?

If you're looking to lose fat, it's important to focus on sustainable lifestyle changes that include a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management. While massage guns may be helpful for muscle recovery and relaxation, they are not a solution for fat loss on their own.

What to avoid when using a massage gun?

Here is an overview of what body parts you should avoid with a massage gun:
  • Your head or face.
  • The front of the neck.
  • Throat or carotid artery.
  • Anywhere along the spine.
  • Directly over your heart, kidneys, or other vital organs.
  • Bony areas like hands, the top of your feet, ankles, elbows, knees, and collarbones.

Is it safe to massage your neck?

In rare cases when a massage is applied too hard or if a preexisting injury exists in the neck, massage can lead to serious complications, such as vertebral artery damage and stroke. To experience the soothing effects of a neck massage, most people do not need the massage to be vigorous.

What is the best massage gun to buy?

Best massage gun overall

The Theragun is the massage gun that most people know, but the Hypervolt 2 Pro is my top pick because it feels just as powerful, but is so much quieter. It's my most-used massage gun and my top recommendation for someone who is looking to invest in a device they'll use frequently.

Is there a wrong way to use a massage gun?

Do not use a massage gun on areas where your skin has cuts or rashes, since the tool could cause further irritation. Do not use a massage gun on areas where you have an injury, torn muscle, pain, swelling, or any similar concern. Avoid using a massage gun on a bony area.

Is a massage gun good for lymphatic drainage?

According to sports therapist Willum Ogden, head of medical at Flow Recovery, this stimulation of the nerves promotes several things, including increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can contribute to an increase in muscle flexibility and joint mobility.

Should I drink water after using a massage gun?

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water before and after using the massage gun to help flush out toxins and support overall well-being.

Are cheap massage guns any good?

Higher-priced options may have more power, greater customizability, and better durability. But that doesn't mean you can't find a high-quality, budget-friendly massage gun that offers powerful relief. They just may not have as many features as their higher-priced counterparts.

Do massage guns work for knots?

In terms of effectiveness, muscle massage guns have been shown to be highly effective in treating muscle knots. One study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that using a massage gun for just one minute on each trigger point led to significant reductions in pain and discomfort.

Why not to get a massage gun?

The reason I do not recommend the use of percussive devices or massage guns is that the risks outweigh the benefits. Unlike vibrating massage heads or foam rollers, these devices create a downward force into the body's tissue like a jackhammer, and the smaller the head(s), the more concentrated the power.

Is a massage gun better than a vibration plate?

Typical vibration massagers aren't usually powerful enough to massage deeply. Massage guns have more powerful motors and reach deeper into muscle tissue, which can relieve pain, release tension, and even improve range of motion.

Are massage guns good for back pain?

Massage guns can ease muscle tension in the low back by gently working out kinks or tight spots in back muscles that may be contributing to tightness or pain. Better circulation. The pressure and vibrations of a massage gun can bring blood flow and healing nutrients to the low back.

How can I flat my tummy by massage?

Start on the right side of your stomach down by the bone of your pelvis. Rub in a circular motion lightly up to the right side till you reach your rib bones. Move straight across to the left side. Work your way down to the left to the hip bone and back up to the belly button for 2-3 minutes.

Can you break up fat cells with massage gun?

Can a massage gun break down fat? The short answer is NO. There is no reliable evidence that shows massage guns can break down fat cells on their own.

Can I use a massage gun on my face?

Absolutely. The gentle, rhythmic pulsations of a massage gun can significantly relax facial muscles, much like a professional facial massage. This relaxation not only alleviates tension but can also contribute to a smoother, more youthful appearance by minimizing fine lines caused by stress and tension.

Can a massage gun help with cellulite?

Cellulite is a common problem for many women; however, there are ways to combat it. Massage guns use vibration technology to increase blood flow and lymphatic drainage in your skin, which may help reduce the appearance of cellulite. It's important to note that percussion therapy is not a guaranteed long term solution.

Are massage guns worth buying?

Conclusion. The likelihood is that investing in a massage gun will not bring any benefit to your recovery, performance, or overall wellbeing.

Is a massage gun better than a foam roller?

A: A foam roller may be more beneficial for those targeting a larger area of the body, and for those looking for a gentler treatment modality. A Theragun may be more useful for targeting small and harder-to-reach muscle groups or areas, or for those looking for a deeper and/or more intense massage treatment.

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