Both a massage gun and foam roller are extremely effective if used properly. Let’s compare the two to find out which you should use.

Chances are you’ve seen someone somewhere using a massage gun or a foam roller. Both tools are ideal for relieving muscle soreness, tightness, inflammation, and more. But both tools, if not used properly, can also cause discomfort and even lead to injury.

In brief, massage guns are used to target specific areas of need and work really well over larger muscles like glutes, the lower back, and calves. By design, a massage gun mimics the hands of a massage therapist and provides deep pressure on specific areas of tension.

Foam rollers rely on body weight to literally “roll out” longer muscles like quads, hamstrings, and glutes. Foam rollers are the better option for a lighter but still very effective touch on sore muscles. 

Massage Gun Benefits

• Increases blood and lymphatic circulation
• Decreases muscle soreness
• Improves movements during sports performance
• Assists in rehabilitation 
• Relieves pain
• Helps stimulate the nervous system 

Foam Roller Benefits

• Eases muscle pain
• Decreases back pain
• May help reduce the appearance of cellulite
• Helps decrease symptoms of fibromyalgia
• Can improve posture
• Increases blood flow

While massage tools can be incredibly beneficial (and less expensive than frequent trips to the spa), if done improperly they can cause your muscles to feel even sorer and can even lead to injury. Never use a massage gun or foam roller over bones or joints like hips or knees. Also, never use these tools on an injury such as a sprain, strain, open wounds, or ones still healing.

Before using a massage gun or foam roller, talk with your doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor, or massage therapist about which one is right for you, and make sure you know the proper uses and techniques for both.

Contact your Longwood Chiropractor 

Need a foam roller crash course? Drop in anytime and let our trusted and trained staff teach you proper techniques.

DISCLAIMER

*The information provided here is only for educational and informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a medical professional before trying anything new.