Multiple speeds and/or intensities : Being able to play with speed, intensity and rotation direction means every massage will feel different – and you can more specifically target the muscles that need attention. A thin layer of lycra covers eight medium-sized shiatsu nodes that rotate in two directions and are surprisingly powerful, giving a satisfyingly deep massage even on the lowest of the three intensity levels. It can take a little experimentation to find the right angle and pressure, but once you’ve adjusted the foam-filled leather straps to a suitable length, it’s pretty intuitive to manoeuvre it into knotted muscles. An added bonus is how quiet this massager is – we almost forgot it was there. However, during your first trimester, it’s best to avoid using a massage gun or having any type of massage since this may increase your risk of miscarriage. Theragun advises taking care and caution when using massage guns on areas of the body that are sensitive to pressure and around bony areas. In addition, the company says people with certain health conditions should speak with their healthcare professional before use. Key specs – Device type: support device; Massage type: Traction support; Heat option: No; Intensity/speed settings : No

They can determine whether the devices are safe and appropriate for your needs. Do massage guns help with arthritis?The Hypervolt 2 offers speeds of up to 2,700 percussions per minute and three levels of pressure to help alleviate post-workout aches, soreness, and stiffness. Plus, it’s lighter than the original Hypervolt, has a longer battery life, and features a more streamlined design. Before trying any treatment for arthritis, it’s important to speak with your healthcare professional. Can you use a massage gun while pregnant? Shiatsu massagers mimic the traditional Japanese massage therapy which delivers a deep, kneading massage with circular motions. These massagers contain ‘nodes’ that move around and apply pressure, like the fingers and palms of a massage therapist. Shiatsu is great for loosening painful knots, releasing chronic tension and improving circulation, and is a wonderful stress-reliever. Key specs – Device type: Wraparound; Massage type: Shiatsu, deep tissue; Power : Mains-powered; Heat option: Yes; Intensity/speed settings : Three speeds Dr. Melissa Prestipino, PT, DPT, and owner of Maize & Blue Rehab in New Jersey, told Healthline, “The Theragun Elite offers a very quiet percussive force, which is quieter than other massage guns on the market. This feature is beneficial when using the device in a public place and not wanting to draw attention with a loud sound.”

The Theragun Elite is a favorite among chiropractors, athletes, and casual exercisers, as it features a powerful motor and five attachable heads for targeted muscle relief.Gua sha: This traditional Chinese healing technique uses a tool to apply pressure to acupressure points and scrape your skin. Tools come in different shapes to target specific areas of the body. They’re small enough to toss in your bag to use on the go. Professional sessions are available, often from acupuncturists. Key specs – Device type: Wraparound; Massage type: Shiatsu; Power : Battery-powered; Heat option: Yes; Intensity/speed settings : Three speeds & multiple settings Mueller SM, et al. (2021). Effects, side effects and contraindications of relaxation massage during pregnancy: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Imtiyaz S, et al. (2014). To compare the effect of vibration therapy and massage in prevention of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Natasha Caleel, a licensed occupational therapist and corrective exercise specialist, uses it on clients regularly and finds it to be a great option for athletes at all levels as well as those trying to reduce muscle tension after a tough day at work.

Cheatham S, et al. (2021). Mechanical percussion devices: A Survey of practice patterns among healthcare professionals. While it’s very basic in design, we found it to be incredibly durable. According to the manufacturer, it’s because of the device’s fiber-infused material and single-piece construction. While it’s somewhat oddly shaped for placing it on a shelf or taking it to go, it could slide under a bed or stand upright in the closet. You can use the pillow on bare skin, but if that feels too intense (as it did for us) it will work through clothing, too. After a 20-minute treatment, you’ll feel a rush of endorphins and hopefully be more relaxed and at ease. Plenty of people report a reduction in pain and stress, better sleep, increased energy levels and lots of other positive outcomes. Multiple power and speed settings are important to get just the right comfort level for the condition you are treating," says Dr. Hayden. If you want a versatile option that can help with various aches and pains, choose one that has power and speed settings. But if you know you like a deep-tissue massage, then aim for a high-power model that goes deeper into your muscles. Hands-free or handheld: A hands-free massager makes it easier to totally relax, but it doesn’t give you the same level of control.Key specs – Device type: Cane; Massage type: Pressure point; Heat option: No; Intensity/speed settings : None Cheaper and simpler massagers will only have one mode of operation. For higher priced and more intensive massagers, look out for the following:

The device offers five speed options, allowing you to dig deep or go lighter on more sensitive areas. Sams L, et al. (2023). The effect of percussive therapy on musculoskeletal performance and experiences of pain: A systematic literature review. That said, you don’t have to go to a professional to see results. Percussive massagers — also known as massage guns — provide short bursts of pressure into your muscle tissue.You can then choose between multiple settings to get just the right intensity of massage for that area. You can set its eight Shiatsu massage nodes to massage at three different speeds, with optional vibration and heat for additional pain relief. If you have trouble dropping off to sleep, use this massager to massage your legs while applying gentle heat, then let it automatically switch off after 15 minutes.