Are Massage Guns dangerous?

Massage guns are attributed to numerous positive attributes, especially by manufacturers. For example, you should simply be able to promote muscle regeneration and reduce pain thanks to pressure massage. But what about safety when using such a massager? This is what I would like to deal with in this article. For this purpose, I asked myself the following question: Are Massage Guns dangerous?

Short Answer

When used correctly, a massage gun is not dangerous. Then the massage gun can also show its positive properties. Indeed, it reduces cellulite, improves regeneration and can increase mobility, as shown by various studies.

However, used incorrectly, massage guns can cause injuries or worsen diseases. For example, direct application of such a massager on a bone or on tendons or ligaments may injure these parts of the body. Also, massage guns should not be used in case of many medical conditions (e.g. inflammations, varicose veins or osteoporosis). For this reason, you should always check with your doctor before using a massage gun for medical purposes.

Long Answer

You have now briefly learned whether a massage gun is dangerous or not. However, I have kept it quite short. Therefore, I would now like to explain in more detail when a massage gun may not be used and what danger exists when using such a device. To do this, I will first explain how a massage gun works and how to use it correctly.

Functionality of a Massage Gun

The functioning of a massage gun can be explained quite simply: As the name suggests, massage guns resemble real guns in terms of their structure. At the end of the massage gun, there is an arm that is moved back and forth by a motor. This creates the shocks in the massage gun. Massage attachments can be attached to the arm. These are shaped differently, so they are each suitable for massaging different muscle groups.

The shock frequency when using a massage gun is up to more than 50 shocks per second. Accordingly, the massage feels intense at high power levels. The stroke length of up to 16 mm, in combination with a powerful motor, can also reach very far into the body.

Proper Use of a Massage Gun

This great power of a massage gun should be used correctly. Otherwise, it can cause pain or even injury. In principle, this is also not too complicated: The massage gun should be used only on muscles. Tendons, ligaments, and bones should not be worked directly with the gun. Also, certain areas of the body must be left out. For example, the following areas must not be worked directly with a massage gun:

The other places are massaged as follows: Start at a low power level. The muscles are worked gently. The massage gun should not be used or should only be used very lightly. Also, do not massage a spot for too long. Instead, the gun should be moved in slow movements over the entire muscle or body part. The length of the application should not exceed 3 minutes per muscle. It is better to perform several short massages throughout the day.

You can read more about the frequency of use here: How often should you use a Massage Gun?

When not to use a Massage Gun

You have now already learned where the massage gun should not be used. In addition, it should not be used in the following cases, as this increases the risk of injury, among other things:

Dangers of a Massage Gun

When using a massage gun, there are different dangers with equally different probabilities. I would now like to show you probably the most common dangers:

Finger Entrapment

One danger is getting your finger caught between the attachment and the massage gun when using it. Accordingly, you should be careful and not move your fingers near the massage head when using the gun. Also, when changing the attachment, you should always turn off the massager completely.

Worsen Muscle Regeneration

Normally, massage guns should promote muscle regeneration. However, if used incorrectly, the regeneration can worsen. This is the case when you work the muscle too hard and for a long time. Therefore, you should not hold the massage gun on one spot for too long and not perform the massage for too long at a stretch.

Especially often, this danger occurs when you use a massage gun for the first time. For this reason, I can only repeat myself: Start using it at a low power level and increase the shock frequency as your muscle gets used to it.

Injure Tendons, Ligaments, Bones

Tendons, ligaments, and bones should not be left out of use for no reason. This is basically what almost every manufacturer warns against. These areas on the body are very sensitive and can be injured by the force of a massage gun. For bony regions, you should therefore opt for a gentle massage attachment, such as an air cushion attachment.

You can find out more about the different attachments here: Massage Gun Attachment Guide – which Attachment to use for each Muscle

Making Injuries and Illnesses worse

If you are already suffering from an illness or if there are injuries, these may be aggravated by the use of a massage gun. This can apply, for example, to skin diseases or the treatment of bursitis. As already mentioned, you should always clarify the use of a massage gun for medical reasons with your doctor.

Causing Complications during Pregnancy

In pregnancy, the incorrect use of a massage gun can have devastating consequences. For example, the massage here can trigger premature labor and, in the worst case, harm the baby. For example, massages in the area of the lower back and abdomen are therefore not allowed under any circumstances. Also, certain massage oils may not be used for this reason.

You can read more about this here: Can you use a Massage Gun while pregnant?

Conclusion – Are Massage Guns dangerous?

Like all massagers, massage guns are quite safe. Of course, there are always certain cases that bring dangers. This is especially true if the massage gun is used incorrectly. For this reason, I have explained to you how a massage gun works and how to use it correctly. I have also explained the dangers of using a massage gun and when it should not be used. I hope that I could help you with that!