How to use a massage gun. Step-by-Step Manual.

If you have older loved ones at home with aches and pains, a massage gun is a perfect tool for them to get relief. 

These 10-pound devices work on tight muscles, alleviate tension, and even stimulate circulation. An adequately used massage gun can make a huge difference in how seniors feel and behave, and many doctors recommend them as a daily routine. 

Here you’ll learn the proper massage techniques for working with older people because they are often more fragile than their younger counterparts.

But why aren't more people using them?

In today's world, we don't think a massage gun is proper enough, right? Wrong! 

The benefits of an easy form of therapy are far too great to overlook. Maintenance and training of the massage gun are crucial to how it will be used. If it is not done appropriately, the massage gun will become less effective for aging people. When training an older loved one on how to use the gun, be very specific about technique and safety.

How to use massage gun properly: Safety

The fascia of older adults has a deteriorated elasticity, and it is essential to avoid over-stimulation that could cause tissue damage. 

A possible reason for this is insufficient stretching exercise or insufficient water intake, causing the fascia to become short and rigid. 

It is important to take extreme care when using equipment on the elderly. They may be quite fragile, so it is necessary to avoid over-stimulation. Training the muscle tissue through exercise and stretching will promote elasticity and prevent the muscle tissues from becoming sclerosed.

A massage is a powerful form of physical and mental therapy. It can help to relax and unwind, stimulates circulation, and even improves sleep patterns. 

Precautions

If done improperly, however, it can also lead to injuries. Injuries sustained by older adults due to improper massages are not uncommon. 

The most common injuries include muscle strains, deep lacerations from razors, etc. 

If a proper massage is not used, injuries can increase in severity and become more difficult to treat. These injuries should not be treated lightly, as the injured muscles may take weeks or months to heal properly. 

Some individuals may become so discouraged that they stop using their massage equipment altogether, believing it will not help.

How to use a massage gun or a percussion massager: Manual & Techniques

The first step is to identify the area of tension. Hold the gun horizontally and gently glide it along the area several times. Avoid using too much pressure, or you will irritate the tissue. Then, gently tap on the area with a light touch and increase pressure as needed to loosen up a tight muscle.

1. After identifying the area of tension, it is time to start the massage gun. The first step is to start slowly and build up your speed after you get used to it.
2. Move in and out in small circles, which will help to increase circulation, and avoid large sweeps. When working on any area, it is important to work with the same technique for all areas so that muscle tissue can respond accordingly. The goal is to increase pressure as needed gradually.
3. It is a good idea to start with the neck, shoulders, back, and hips. These areas are usually the most difficult and will greatly help reduce pain and stiffness.
4. It would be wise if you identified areas with wounds and irritation and made sure to isolate these particular areas because a lot more care is needed when working on such areas. It is also one of the most important aspects of how you do it, as you want to avoid irritating the area even more.
5. Identify areas where there is a build-up of fluid and make sure to be extra gentle when working on those areas. 
6. Once the muscle has been loosened up, you can start working on another area. Many people find it helpful to do a 'pulse' of one area followed by a second area, then back to the first. Repeat this step until the whole body has been covered. The gun's motor can cause a clicking sound that some people find annoying. If you find the clicking sound to be bothersome, try putting a hand over the end.
7. Keep your eyes on what is going on as you massage, and keep a close eye on blood flow. When you are done with one area, move to another and start over again.
8. You can add some stretching to the massage at this point. Start by rolling the foot down and back, then up and down. Make sure you do a little bit at a time and don't overdo it.
9. Besides the fascia and tissue elasticity, the other major concern when working with older people is the possibility of bone breaks. Avoid all forms of extreme pressure, and be sure to use gentle, circular motions and avoid aggressive or sudden movements that could cause damage to bones. 
10. It is also vital to avoid over-stimulating the body's parasympathetic nerves, which can happen if the fascia and tissue elasticity are poor.

The massager is used by placing it on the targeted area and turning it on. Most models feature three speeds: slow, medium, and fast. Some massage guns also feature various attachments for targeting specific areas. 

The most common attachment is a head attachment that you can use on the head, face, and neck. The two other most common attachments are a foot attachment and an extension cord to give the user greater reach. The extension cord is recommended for users with mobility issues.

Conclusion

Massage guns have proven to be very effective therapy devices for individuals of all ages. 

It is safe and beneficial when used appropriately. It is important to learn the proper techniques and follow safety precautions when working with older people because they are often more fragile than their younger counterparts. 

Exercise and stretching are crucial to maintaining good body health as you age. Even if you do not have a massage table at home, you can still practice and get the same benefits. Stretching can be performed on anything long enough with some give in it. The floor, a table, or booster seat can be used for stretching as long as it doesn't have sharp edges.