Top 4 Massage Guns Recommended by Physical Therapists for Muscle Recovery

Whether you exercise at home, hit the gym, or don’t work out regularly, a massage gun is an excellent tool for easing muscle tension and enhancing daily relaxation. To understand how these devices function, we consulted four physical therapists. They shared insights on safe usage, top-rated models and brands, and additional tips for maximizing benefits.

Understanding Massage Guns

Dr. Karena Wu, a physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York City and Mumbai, explains that massage guns work by rapidly moving tissues using percussive force or high-frequency vibrations. This process boosts blood flow, improves circulation, and alleviates muscle pain and tightness. “Massage guns are ideal for anyone seeking to enhance soft tissue fluid movement, reduce stiffness, and manage pain, offering a convenient form of self-massage at home,” Wu shares with Mytour.

When shopping for massage guns, you’ll often encounter the term PPM, which stands for “percussions or strokes per minute.” This metric indicates how quickly the massage gun’s head works on your muscles. PPM ranges typically span from 1200 to 3400, with higher speeds delivering a more vigorous massage, as Wu notes. However, Dr. Rahul Shah, an orthopedic spine and neck surgeon at Premier Orthopaedic Spine Associates in New Jersey, warns against excessive force, which could lead to injury, particularly for those with sensitive skin or first-time users. Dr. Sarah Clampett, a physical therapist at Origin in California, suggests opting for a massage gun with a broad PPM range to customize the intensity to your body’s needs.

Regardless of your choice, Wu emphasizes the importance of thorough research before purchasing a massage gun, as there’s no universal solution. Different models and attachments may suit your specific requirements better. “It’s essential to research factors like weight, speed settings, number of attachments, battery life, stall force, PPM, and price before making a decision,” Wu advises.

How to Use a Massage Gun—And What Are the Potential Risks?

To use a massage gun effectively, target muscle-rich areas such as your shoulders, back, or glutes. Most massage guns offer adjustable PPM settings, so adjust the speed based on your comfort level. Turn on the device and concentrate on the area needing relief. Dr. Shashank Davé, an associate professor of clinical physical medicine and rehabilitation at Indiana University School of Medicine, told Consumer Reports that sessions should last between six and 10 minutes.

Experts also caution against using massage guns on less muscular areas like the jawline, ankles, wrists, or shins, as these regions may be too delicate for intense percussive therapy. For full-body relief, especially in sensitive areas, Wu recommends using a dampener attachment with your massage gun.

Pregnant individuals considering the use of a massage gun should proceed with caution, experts advise. Clampett’s clinic, Origin, specializes in women’s health, including those who are pregnant, postpartum, or trying to conceive. Clampett warns that massage guns may pose risks during pregnancy. “Increased blood volume and circulation during pregnancy could make massage guns potentially harmful, especially in the lower legs, where they might contribute to blood clots,” Clampett explains.

For pregnant individuals who wish to use a massage gun, Clampett recommends consulting a doctor first and limiting use to the neck and upper back. Experts also caution those with bone fractures, bleeding disorders, or circulation issues to avoid using massage guns without medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment to weigh the benefits and risks.

Top Massage Guns to Consider

1. Top pick overall: Therabody Theragun Elite and Prime; Starting at $229

Theragun, a leading name in massage guns, lives up to its reputation, according to our experts. Three professionals endorsed the brand, with Wu highlighting its suitability for casual users without pre-existing conditions seeking muscle relief. Clampett specifically recommends the Theragun Elite and Prime. The Elite, priced at $399, is wireless and features Quiet Glide Technology, offering speeds from 1750 to 2400 PPMs. Its ergonomic handle ensures comfort during use. The Prime, currently on sale for $229 (originally $299), is a compact, budget-friendly alternative with four attachments, though it lacks wireless functionality. We’ve tested the Prime and found it to be a worthwhile purchase.

2. Ideal for Travel: Hyperice Hypervolt and Hypervolt 2; $200

Wu suggests this brand for individuals without specific health issues who are exploring alternatives to pricier Theragun models. “The Hypervolt offers a powerful yet quiet percussion experience,” Wu notes. Both Wu and Dr. Kristen Gasnick, who practices outpatient rehabilitation at Holy Name Medical Center in New Jersey, use the original Hyperice Hypervolt, priced at $249 but currently discounted to $200, for their patients. Wu appreciates its user-friendly design, TSA approval, and lightweight build, making it ideal for travel. The Hypervolt features three speed settings and five interchangeable heads for customizable use.

For those seeking a quieter massage gun, Clampett recommends both the Hypervolt and the Hypervolt 2, available for $200. These models boast impressive battery life, offering up to three hours of use per charge at speeds reaching 3200 PPM. They are cordless, Bluetooth-enabled, and compatible with the brand’s app, allowing users to access pre-programmed or custom sessions.

3. Top Choice for Quiet Operation: Ekrin Athletics B37 and 365; Starting at $180

For those seeking a quieter massage gun, Clampett suggests considering two models from Ekrin Athletics. The Ekrin B37 boasts an eight-hour battery, five speed settings ranging from 1400 to 3200 PPM, and Ultra Quiet Technology, which the brand claims operates at 55 decibels (comparable to a coffee maker). The Ekrin 365, priced at $180, is a lighter and more affordable option compared to the B37, which costs $230. The 365 offers four attachments, four speed settings, and five hours of battery life. Both models include travel cases and attachments like flat, bullet, round, and fork heads, tailored for different body areas.

4. Ideal for Sensitive Users: Pado PureWave Gen II Dual Massager; $150

Wu also recommends PureWave by Pado, a brand used at ActiveCare Physical Therapy, for its versatility and affordability, with prices starting around $100. While the brand offers both gentle and intense models, Wu highlights the Gen II Dual Massager as particularly suitable for pediatric, geriatric, or tissue-sensitive patients. Priced at $150, this model features multiple speeds and a high-frequency vibration mode, making it gentler on tissues compared to percussive models.