Are Massage Guns Worth It? A Physio’s Honest Take

Are Massage Guns Worth It? A Physio’s Honest Take

If you’ve spent even five minutes scrolling through fitness or wellness Instagram, you’ve probably seen someone using a massage gun. They promise deep tissue relief, faster recovery, and better performance — all from a handheld device that looks (and sometimes sounds) like a power drill.

But do they actually work?

As a physiotherapist, I get asked this a lot. So here’s my honest take on whether massage guns are worth your money — and how to use them properly.

💥 What Is a Massage Gun?

Massage guns (also known as percussion massagers) deliver rapid bursts of pressure into your muscles, mimicking a technique called tapotement — a rhythmic tapping used in sports massage. Most claim to reduce soreness, break up muscle knots, and improve circulation.

They’re now wildly popular among athletes, weekend warriors, office workers, and, well, just about everyone who feels stiff and sore.

 

✅ What the Research Says

So, are the benefits legit?

🔹 Short-Term Relief:
Research shows that massage guns can temporarily reduce muscle soreness, especially after intense exercise. A 2020 study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that percussion massage was as effective as traditional massage in reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).

🔹 Improved Range of Motion:
Another study published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine noted improved flexibility and joint range of motion immediately after using a massage gun on the calf muscles.

🔹 Circulation & Recovery:
While more evidence is needed, early findings suggest that percussive therapy may help boost blood flow and reduce muscular tightness, especially when used as part of a broader recovery routine.

So yes — there’s genuine benefit when used correctly and consistently.

🧠 From a Physio’s Perspective: When It Helps

💡 Great For:

  • Post-workout soreness

  • Muscle tightness after long periods of sitting

  • Preparing muscles before physical activity

  • Supporting rehab (as guided by a physio)

🚫 Not Ideal For:

  • Treating serious injuries

  • Deep tissue release of chronic knots (despite what influencers say)

  • Areas with nerve pain, inflammation, or acute injury

Massage guns should never replace a proper rehab plan or medical advice. Think of them as a tool — not a cure.

⚙️ Choosing the Right Massage Gun

There are a lot out there, ranging from £20 to £300+. Here’s what I recommend looking for:

  • Variable speed settings

  • Interchangeable heads

  • Long battery life

  • Quiet operation

  • Compact size if you’re using it on the go

At YourPhysioNeeds, we’ve selected a mini massage gun that ticks all these boxes — without the crazy price tag.

🏁 Final Thoughts

So, are massage guns worth it?

✔ If you want a convenient way to relieve tight muscles and aid your recovery, yes — massage guns can be a game-changer.

But use them as part of a well-rounded approach: movement, stretching, proper rest, and strength work still matter most.

If you’re unsure how or when to use one, feel free to message me — I’m happy to guide you through it.

 

References: 

Konrad, A., Glashüttner, C., Reiner, M. M., Bernsteiner, D., & Tilp, M. (2020). The acute effects of a percussive massage treatment with a hypervolt device on plantar flexor muscles’ range of motion and performance. Journal of sports science & medicine, 19(4), 690. 

Luo, J., McNamara, B., & Moran, K. (2005). The use of vibration training to enhance muscle strength and power. Sports medicine, 35, 23-41.

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