Muscle strains can be painful and disruptive to daily life, but there are a variety of ways to manage symptoms and prevent future occurrences. This article will discuss this topic, such as various home remedies to relieve muscle strains, particularly handheld fascial guns. In hopes that by following these tips, individuals can effectively manage muscle strains and reduce the risk of future injuries.
Home Remedies
Here are some home remedies for relieving muscle strain:
- Resting and icing the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, multiple times a day reduces swelling, inflammation, and pain.
- Compression bandages and elevating the affected area above the heart level can also aid in healing, but the bandage should fit snugly without being too tight.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen alleviate pain and inflammation. It is crucial to follow dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Gentle stretching and exercises improve flexibility and strength, stopping immediately if discomfort or pain arises.
- Consuming nutrient-rich foods high in protein, calcium, and vitamin D and staying hydrated help in muscle recovery and minimize stiffness.
- Applying heat therapy to the strained area using warm compresses, heating pads, or warm baths increases blood flow and relaxes muscles, but excessive heat should be avoided.
- Handheld percussive massage devices use high-frequency vibration technology to stimulate muscle relaxation and recovery effectively. Consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into a treatment plan.
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How a Handheld Massage Gun Works
The handheld massage gun uses high-frequency and percussive movements for deep tissue massage. A motor drives an oscillating head that applies pressure pulses (up to 3,000 times per minute) to muscle tissue.
This pulsation penetrates deep into the muscle, stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation and muscle tension, and promoting faster healing while breaking up knots and trigger points. Most devices come with attachments designed for specific body parts, providing adjustable speed settings for customized intensity levels.
However, to avoid further injury or muscle damage, it is important to keep safety a priority and prevent overuse. It is recommended that a medical professional be consulted before incorporating these devices into a treatment plan.
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Using a Handheld Massage Gun
To use a handheld massage gun for muscle strain relief, choose the right attachment for the affected area and adjust the intensity level to your preference. Begin using the device on the affected area, moving slowly around the muscle, focusing on the area of pain or tension. Avoid bony areas or joints and limit each user to 15 minutes, several times a day.
Safety should always come first and overuse must be avoided to prevent further injury or muscle damage.
Benefits of Using a Massage Gun
The benefits of using a massage gun for muscle recovery include:
- Relieving muscle tension: A massage gun can help to stretch muscles, reducing pain and stiffness.
- Enhancing blood circulation: The use of a massage gun can enhance blood circulation and lymphatic flow, promoting faster recovery.
- Alleviating pain: A massage gun can stimulate muscle nerves, relieving soreness and pain.
- Improving athletic performance: The use of a massage gun can improve muscle flexibility and athletic performance, enhancing overall physical health.