We consider the Viktor Jurgen a basic massager since it only has two adjustable speeds and one heat setting. For safety, we like that it will automatically shut off after 15 minutes of use and overheat protection so it won't get too hot. For the price, you can't do much better. However, more advanced massagers are on our list should you want an even more personalized experience. While you can also use it to warm up your muscles pre-workout, many reviewers mention it’s been very helpful for soothing sore muscles after intense workouts. Massage therapists will wear face masks/visors. Gloves will be worn where necessary throughout treatment. Air purifiers will be used in our treatment rooms. 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. For example, a 2014 study from the National Library of Medicine in the USA confirmed that percussive therapy 'significantly' reduces DOMS at 24, 48 and 72 hours after exercise.

By entering our premises or purchasing any of our services, you confirm that you understand and agree to all of the following terms and conditions ( Terms ). These Terms apply to all services that Naked Hands Spa Ltd ( We , Us or our ) provide to you. Charging format: A versatile charging format, such as USB-C, is really handy too, because it means you can plug the unit into your phone charger. Among the six interchangeable heads HoMedics includes with its Pro Physio massage gun are a ‘heat head’, which you can set to heat up to 47˚C in less than two minutes, and a ‘cold head’, which you can keep in the freezer. For many, these will make all the difference to training and everyday comfort. The device is also mercifully quiet, and glides smoothly over your skin or clothes, whichever head you use (barrel, ball and arrow are all included, as well as cellulite, hot and cold). Caleel calls it a great tool for professionals and novice athletes alike. She likes the lightweight design and ergonomic handle, and said this makes it comfortable and easy to use on yourself or others. A lot of deep-tissue massagers use percussive therapy. The rapid pulsing movements direct blood flow to muscles throughout your body to alleviate pain and tension. Deep-tissue massage guns typically use percussive therapy.

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Type: Chair; kneading/compression | Features: Heat, compression, shiatsu, rolling, spot massage, adjustable height | Best For: People looking to decompress after a long day Effectiveness: We noted how successful each massager was at relieving tension, how enjoyable it was to use, how much effort was required to get the desired result, and if it lowered a feeling of pain or stiffness. While we found the shorter length of this model to be good for certain body parts, larger people may not find it adequate for their needs. She also called out its easy-to-grip ergonomic design, which she says makes it more comfortable for people with hand and wrist issues, such as arthritis. Features: We examined if there were different speed, heat, and intensity settings and then analyzed whether those settings were actually worth while.

Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, board-certified orthopedic physical therapist and certified early intervention specialist. owner of Marko Physical Therapy in New York City, Verywell Health Medical Review Board Member

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Whether you’re an athlete, an exercise fanatic, or someone who spends hours hunched over in a chair, almost everyone could benefit from massage. At-home massagers are designed to imitate the experience of human massage while offering you the convenience of access whenever you need it. According to physical therapist Karena Wu, PT, DPT, at-home massagers loosen up tight tissues, increase circulation, and increase muscle activation to lower pain perception. However, it’s worth noting that massage is directed trauma; as a result, overdoing it can lead to bleeding or other issues, says Dr. Charles Hummer, MD. We spoke to experts at every stage of researching and reporting this story. Some, like Dr. Marko, helped us come up with effective ways to test these products, while others shared information on what makes a massager effective, what qualities we should avoid or seek out, and safety concerns surrounding using a massager. We choose products independently, but use expert input to influence our choices. 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. Price and Value: Price is relative when it comes to the overall effectiveness of a massager. Be sure not to be tempted just by a higher price point, and bells and whistles, as simple designs can oftentimes promote great results. Mueller SM, et al. (2021). Effects, side effects and contraindications of relaxation massage during pregnancy: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.