A Deep Tissue Massager Helps You Reach Otherwise Unreachable Muscles

When would a massage gun be “deep tissue”?

A deep tissue massager can come in different forms. The most popular form is the massage gun. However, not all massage guns are deep tissue massagers. A key element in determining whether a percussion massager can be considered a deep tissue massager has to be its amplitude.

Unfortunately, there are no industry standards that can automatically be applied. Different manufacturers will indicate their massage gun is for deep tissue massage. However, in some cases, the amplitude can be as low as 10 mm and as high as 16 mm. Nevertheless, 10 mm is considered deep tissue by many.

Of course, amplitude without stall force would not be effective. What exactly is stall force? Stall force is how much force you can apply to a massage gun before the motor stops. For a percussion massager to be deep tissue, it would need at least 40 lbs of stall force. Some massagers in the market reach 60 lbs of stall force.

Deep tissue vs traditional massage

Deep tissue massage has similar benefits to traditional massage but affecting both superficial and deep structures. Buried beneath the surface of superficial muscles are layers of muscle tissue and connective tissue. These structures are typically missed when using a smaller amplitude massage gun. They can also be the source of major discomfort for individuals. Connective tissue microdamage heals with scar tissue, which leads to adhesions. These adhesions limit mobility and are a source of discomfort. A deep tissue massager through mechanical percussions can break down these adhesions.

Achieving pain relief with deep tissue massager

Mechanical stimulation through a massage gun relieves pain through different mechanisms. The body responds to it by increasing blood flow to the area. Increasing blood flow speeds up healing and the removal of metabolic waste. Mechanical stimulation and increased blood flow result in an increase in temperature. The soothing effect of heat also plays a role in the feeling of relief.

Mechanical stimulation also relieves pain through what is called the “gate control theory.” Sensory stimuli come from different parts of the body and go to the spinal cord. However, individuals only perceive the first stimulus that reaches the spinal cord, as in the first through the “gate.” A mechanical stimulus is much quicker than a pain stimulus, which translates to individuals feeling the percussions and not the discomfort. A similar situation to rubbing your leg right after a fall or scratching when you feel an itch or tickle. Both an itch and tickle are forms of pain stimulation; scratching is a form of mechanical stimulation.

The benefits described above apply to all types of massage. However, in the case of deep tissue massage, these benefits apply to structures that are buried below other muscles or connective tissue. This translates to comfort that is not just skin deep.

A percussion massager reduces pain and inflammation in otherwise unreachable muscles.