Let A Fascial Gun Guide Your Recovery
Posted onWhat is a fascial gun?
A fascial gun has many names. Some know it as:
- A massage gun
- A percussion massager
- A handheld massager
However, when someone adds the word “fascial” to the name, they typically do so because they want to target their fascia specifically.
Defining “fascial”
The word fascial in “fascial gun”, comes from “fascia”, which is another way of saying thick fibrous connective tissue made primarily of a protein called “collagen”. Connective tissue is like a web or a film that wraps around everything to support and connect the different structures. Fascia is found around muscles, internal organs, bones, and nerves. Similar to a stocking holding everything together, collagen fibers help muscles move smoothly and efficiently. This allows fascia to help stabilize different body regions like the low back as well as transmit forces between seemingly unrelates structures.
Collagen and aging
Unfortunately, collagen could lose its elasticity with age or immobility leading to adhesions between the different connective tissue layers. This causes a reduction in its ability to move, ultimately reducing its function. Similar situations can result from injury, overuse, or even dehydration. Even regular sports activity can result in connective tissue microdamage, leading to inflammation, which results in reduced mobility and decreased joint range of motion. Healing takes place with the formation of scar tissue, keeping that reduced range of motion, resulting in movement dysfunctions. These dysfunctions can lead to more scaring. This could be an endless vicious cycle.
So, why use a percussion massager?
A myofascial massage gun has many potential uses, but here we will focus on fascia-specific benefits. Some will say that a myofascial massager will reduce fascial thickness, often seen in individuals with back pain. However, the little research in the area indicates that is not true, at least not when applied at 30 Hz or 1800 RPM. Nevertheless, individuals who tried it on their back experienced reduced echo intensity, which is a measure that reflects the well-being of collagen fibers around the lower back. Lower echo intensity is associated with better mobility and softer fascia. The same individuals also reported a reduction in perceived stiffness. Ultimately, improving the well-being of their fascia.
Fast or slow? More myofascial massage gun research is needed!
It is unknown if the application of a massage pistol at a different speed would have a different effect on fascia thickness or affect the massager benefits. Future research should shed light on the issue. Even with little research, many physical therapists and athletic trainers use massage guns regularly with great results. Most report using it for therapeutic reasons, with over 50% stating they use it on myofascial trigger points specifically.
Using a fascial massager on your connective tissue is relaxing, therapeutic, and enjoyable.