Additionally, it comes with two rechargeable batteries, so you can charge one while the other is in use. Xiong M, et al. (2018). Effectiveness of aromatherapy massage and inhalation on symptoms of depression in Chinese community-dwelling older adults. 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. 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). Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: 40 lbs | Weight: 2.2 lbs | Customizability: 5 head attachments, 5 preset speeds (also customizable) | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5

Noise: 40 dB | Stall Force: 30 lbs | Weight: 2.3 lbs | Customizability: 6 head attachments, 6 speeds | Battery Life: 6 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Best for athletes and exercisers who need a quiet gun with speed customization for their massage treatments. The lymphatic system helps remove toxins, and improved circulation can help with a number of conditions, including: Mini massage guns are especially useful for people who have weaker hands, or who have chronic arthritis pain, and can't hold heavier devices comfortably for an extended period. We like that the Theragun Mini has a sleek, ergonomic grip that helps reduce the strain on your hands. Therabody claims that this second-generation Mini is 20% smaller and 30% lighter than its predecessor, making it even more portable and perfect for travel.

Noise: Not listed | Stall Force: Not applicable | Weight: 0.6 lbs | Customizability: 6 attachments | Battery Life: 2 hours | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5 Theragun is a powerhouse in the massage gun market, and after testing the brand's most popular massage gun models, the Theragun Prime (4th Generation) was our favorite. In fact, it earned an overall higher rating than the more expensive Theraguns we tested. We felt it was very effective at relieving sore muscles after a workout and was easy to hold and quiet. It's a budget-friendly massage gun option from the brand that still provides all the features you need for sore muscle relief.Do you like intense massages that allow for an in-depth release of muscle tension? The deep tissue massage is what you are looking for. It is especially popular amongst athletes, as the strong pressure is great for reducing tension and stiffness. At 0.9 pounds, RENPHO's Mini Massage Gun is the lightest option on our list, making it easily portable with or without the included carrying case. We like that it can be gripped perfectly with the palm of your hand, making it comfortable and easy to use.

And for pregnant women? Treat yourself, or a mother-to-be to a prenatal massage! It releases tension linked to pregnancy, offers relief from physical aches and pains and mental fatigue. It’s also great for reconnecting to your body as you take the time to relax. These are the intended areas of application for each massage gun head we came across (under various names) in our tests:Qin P, et al. (2019). Effectiveness of hand self-shiatsu to improve sleep following sport-related concussion in young athletes: a proof-of-concept study.

As with stretching, though, you’re advised not to overdo it. Don’t be tempted to use your massage gun for more than 10 minutes in one go, especially on the higher speed settings. Experts suggest focusing your massage gun on each muscle group for only up to 30 seconds before and during exercise. Then once your workout is done, you can go at it a bit more, spending up to two minutes on each muscle group. It's important to tell the massage therapist prior to the session if you have any medical conditions, are pregnant, or have recently had an injury. This way they can amend the treatment to suit you. What might work for one person, may not work for you. Each type of massage will differ in the techniques that are used, so you may benefit from seeking an alternative type of therapy. To narrow down the best massage guns, we tested 32 devices over 840 hours in the Verywell Testing Lab and continue to test each massage gun at home as part of our regular recovery routines. During the testing process, we evaluate each one for the following six key attributes:Of course, the questions you ask will depend on the type of massage you have chosen, and the reasons why you are seeking treatment. However, common concerns include: What do I wear?