Buying Massage Guns? Here is what I look for....

As a chiropractor with over 20 years of experience using various massage guns, I've tried many different devices for daily use. Initially, I used devices like the "thumper," which were large, heavy, and were required to be plugged in. Nowadays, portable handheld massage guns are widely available, with prices ranging from as low as $20 to over $700 for some major brands.

I often hear that someone's massage gun doesn't feel like the one I use in the office, so I decided to share some insights on what makes a difference when purchasing and using a percussion massage gun.

Recently i investigated buying a different brand of massage gun - and these are the things i considered and looked for before deciding on what to buy:

1. The travel or amplitude of the massage gun

2. The adjustable speeds of the massage gun

3. The stall force

4. The noise level

5. The battery size and charger type

6. The weight of the device

7. The shape and handling of the device

8. The warranty offered.

Let's explore each of these factors to understand what I looked for and why.

1. Amplitude refers to how far the massage head moves in and out during percussion. In my office, the best devices have an 8-10mm travel range, providing effective pressure and force over muscles. This range is beneficial for larger, tighter muscles, and the force can be reduced for delicate areas by adjusting the angle of the massage head. Many smaller massage guns have only about 5mm amplitude, In the picture below the smallest massage gun has a 5mm amplitude - the biggest is more then 15mm - whilst the other two are in the 8-10mm range which is what i consider the sweetspot. (see the pictures)

   
   

   

   The range of massage guns here are from the inexpensive $40 versions to a $550 big gun that is probably more then the average person would need.

   
   

2. Speed is related to frequency, measured in cycles per second or rpm (60 rpm equals 1 Hz). I prefer massage guns capable of at least 50 Hz or 3000 rpm, which promotes good blood flow and muscle relaxation. At these speeds, it's best to let the gun work without applying too much pressure.

3. Stall force indicates how much pressure it takes to stop the massage gun. This is often a concern with smaller guns and can be difficult to determine when shopping. Larger massage guns with the right speed and amplitude usually don't have this issue, but it's reassuring to know they can handle some extra pressure if needed.

4. Noise may seem minor, but it's important. In my office, I dislike massage guns that are louder than a buzz. I've discarded perfectly functioning guns due to noise, and using a noisy gun at home while watching TV can be annoying. Look for decibel levels; for example, the Flow massage gun I use in the office is about 45dB.

5. Consider the battery size and charger type. Both models I use are chargeable via USB-C, which is convenient. A 2500mAh battery is sufficient for regular home use. In the office, I need multiple charged devices and recharge them throughout the day. Recharging doesn't take long, but a full charge requires about 3 hours.

6. Weight isn't crucial for short use, but I prefer a massage gun that's light enough to hold comfortably yet heavy enough to feel solid and provide some weight during massage without constant pressure. The ones I use weigh around 800g.

   
   

7. For shape, I like the typical gun shape with a thick handle for easy gripping. Sometimes, I grip the barrel for better pressure application in certain directions. This is personal preference, and for self-use, you might prefer a longer handle or a smaller, triangular model.

   
   

8. A warranty is valuable. I've needed to claim warranties before for issues like charging problems, noise, or stuck massage heads. While I've risked buying from overseas suppliers without warranty coverage, it's a personal choice to consider.

And buy the time you have checked out all these things - you are ready to go.

The big tip i have for you though is to keep whatever massage gun you purchase somewhere obvious and keep it charged. A few minutes here and there throughout the week may just help you feel and function that little bit better. No matter which one you buy - they dont work well when kept in the cupboard!!!