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The body's musculoskeletal system consists of bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and connective tissues. These parts get pushed to the extreme with everyday wear and tear, job, school, house chores, and tasks. All the flexing and contracting cause tightness, strain, and soreness that can contribute to negative muscle behavior that holds the muscles in an unhealthy position and in a semi-flexed or tightened state. An example is an unhealthy posture that becomes the norm for an individual. A percussive massage can release tightness, maintain flexibility, relieve discomfort, alleviate stress, and improve circulation. Percussive Massage Therapy A percussive/percussion massage is a form of physical therapy that utilizes vibration through repeated pressure bursts to massage muscles. Percussive therapy offers more control over targeted muscle groups than foam rollers and other static massagers. The treatment involves using an electric massage device to relieve muscle tension. Different massage heads for various therapeutic purposes move rapidly and forcefully, applying pressure directly to the soft tissues while the vibrations help release and loosen the areas. How The Massage Works - Fascia, which wraps around the muscles and joints, can become tight and inflamed, causing soreness and pain.
- Research shows that tight fascia can limit mobility and proper range of motion.
- When a muscle group is stiff and limits the range of motion of a specific part of the body, the rest of the muscles and body will overcompensate. This increases the risk of serious injury.
- Percussive therapy loosens the tissues and increases blood circulation.
- Once the stiffness and soreness are relieved, continued percussive therapy can prevent tightness from reforming, improve the range of motion, and speed up muscle recovery.
- Massage guns can penetrate up to an inch into the soft tissue, stimulating the muscles and helping release tension.
Benefits Improved mobility - Percussive massage distributes the thickened fascia fluid to relieve pressure and tightness.
- Repeated pressure at high speed thins the fluids, making the fascia more workable so the muscles can move easily and efficiently.
Reduced Soreness - Lactic acid builds up in the muscles after working, physical activity, and exercise.
- This build-up causes soreness and pain.
- The percussion forces muscle fibers to release the lactic acid, reducing the soreness.
Decreased DOMS/Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness - It's common to experience pain and soreness 24 to 72 hours after unfamiliar physical activity, such as a new job, exercise routine, or rehabilitation after injury or surgery.
- This is known as delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS, which results from tiny muscle fiber tears.
- Percussive therapy increases skin temperature, blood flow, and hormonal responses to reduce inflammation and pain.
Increases Relaxation - After work, school, physical activities, and working out, a percussive massage session can help the body wind down and relax.
- A percussive massage will help the muscles release and relax when the body is exhausted or overwhelmed.
How To Use A Percussive Massager - Before starting a new medical treatment, including percussion therapy, talk to your doctor, physical therapist, or chiropractor.
- Ensure you know the difference between normal muscle soreness and pain from an injury.
- Don't use a massager on an injured muscle or body part, as the aggressive motion could aggravate the injury.
- Avoid using the device on bones or joints.
- Never use a massage gun directly on the neck; perform the massage on the shoulders and upper back.
- Start with the lowest intensity level.
- The low and medium settings should provide plenty of power for most users.
- As you become more comfortable with the device, you'll understand how your body reacts then you can try out the higher settings.
- A percussive massager should be used in short bursts on small, targeted areas.
- It is recommended to perform treatments for only a few minutes.
- Seeing the muscles turning reddish during the massage signals that blood is flowing and it's time to move on to another area.
- If the massage gun makes the skin sore or sensitive, make tiny circles instead of holding the massager in one spot.
- Some massagers have pressure-sensing technology to help apply the right amount of pressure.
Combined with chiropractic and professional massage, percussive therapy can help individuals maintain a relaxed musculoskeletal system. General Disclaimer * The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN* email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico* References Cafarelli, E et al. "Vibratory massage and short-term recovery from muscular fatigue." International journal of sports medicine vol. 11,6 (1990): 474-8. doi:10.1055/s-2007-1024840 Cerciello, Simone, et al. "Clinical applications of vibration therapy in orthopedic practice." Muscles, ligaments and tendons journal vol. 6,1 147-56. 19 May. 2016, doi:10.11138/mltj/2016.6.1.147 Cheatham, Scott W et al. "Mechanical Percussion Devices: A Survey of Practice Patterns Among Healthcare Professionals." International journal of sports physical therapy vol. 16,3 766-777. 2 Jun. 2021, doi:10.26603/001c.23530 García-Sillero, Manuel et al. “Acute Effects of a Percussive Massage Treatment on Movement Velocity during Resistance Training.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 18,15 7726. 21 Jul. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph18157726 Jack Martin, "A critical evaluation of percussion muscle gun therapy as a rehabilitation tool focusing on lower limb mobility." A literature review. Department of Health and Wellbeing. The University of Winchester. https://osf.io/preprints/sportrxiv/j9ya8/ Imtiyaz, Shagufta et al. "To Compare the Effect of Vibration Therapy and Massage in Prevention of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)." Journal of clinical and diagnostic research: JCDR vol. 8,1 (2014): 133-6. doi:10.7860/JCDR/2014/7294.3971 Konrad, Andreas et al. "The Acute Effects of a Percussive Massage Treatment with a Hypervolt Device on Plantar Flexor Muscles' Range of Motion and Performance." Journal of sports science & medicine vol. 19,4 690-694. 19 Nov. 2020
Physical therapists or PT's are healthcare professionals that help treat/rehabilitate patients of all ages with various types of injuries. - Personal
- Work
- Sports
- Auto Accidents
A primary care physician, physiatrist, orthopaedist, spine surgeon, or neurosurgeon may refer an individual to a physical therapist as part of a non-surgical treatment plan. A physical therapy program may be an integral part of your after-care following surgery. PTs practice in various settings like: - Chiropractic clinics
- Outpatient clinics
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation centers
- Gym/Fitness centers
- Nursing homes
- Wellness Centers
Physical Therapy Physical therapy aims to: - Improve/maintain functional ability
- Build physical strength/endurance
- Increase flexibility
- Reduce pain
- Prevent further injury
Therapists teach patients how to: - Exercise safely
- Improve physical fitness
- Move safely
- Biomechanics
- Ergonomics
- Injury prevention
Physical therapists also help patients with physical disabilities like spinal cord injury. It includes active and passive treatments the therapist administers to the patient. Treatments include: - Ultrasound
- Massage
- Myofascial release
- Ice
- Heat
Some treatments are done prior to active therapeutic exercise. Conditions therapists treat - Sciatica
- Whiplash
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spondylosis (spinal arthritis)
- Post spine surgery therapy
Therapists want to help patients rebuild strength, flexibility, and endurance after any type of intense surgery, as well as help with any specific physical necessities related to post-surgery. Team Care Therapists often work directly for or with a doctor/chiropractor to coordinate a treatment plan. A doctor may send the therapist: - Diagnosis
- Current medications
- Imaging/scan results
During the consultation, the physical therapist talks about medical history, diagnosis, and symptoms. This can include: - Conditions
- Medications being taken
- Diet
- Supplements
Type of Pain like: The location of the pain that will also include: - Severity
- Type
- Factors that decrease or increase pain
Training Physical therapists have completed an accredited physical therapy program and passed a required state licensing examination. In the United States, physical therapy programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. The program includes: - Academic learning
- Medical ethics
- Evidence-based medicine
- Clinical application
Therapists graduate with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree. The American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties through a series of classes/tests therapists can become board-certified specialists in specific areas like: - Orthopedics
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Sports
These are just a few, but there are many areas of specialization. Physical Therapist Many states allow individuals to go to a physical therapist without a referral from a doctor. Definitely ask your doctor for a recommendation, but also think about what you want in a therapist. Things to consider: - Physical therapist’s education/training background
- Do they treat my condition regularly
- Will my insurance cover the therapy
- How many sessions will I need
- Will, there be a customized home treatment plan
- Male or female physical therapist, which is right for you
Take Charge Physical therapists are valuable healthcare professionals and members of the medical community. Physical therapy can be challenging but don't let that get you down, because they will help get you back to optimal health, along with building a stronger, healthier body. Physical therapist Sandra Rubio describes how whiplash-associated disorders resulting from an automobile accident can cause symptoms of neck pain. An injury to the cervical spine can damage the complex structures of the neck, including: - Vertebrae
- Intervertebral discs
- Soft tissues
- Tendons
- Ligaments
- Muscles
Neck pain can come from various structures in the neck including vascular, nerve, airway, digestive, and musculature or it can originate from other areas of the human body. Most cases can be treated with assistance or using self-help suggestions and techniques.
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Stress health recognizes how stress affects the body, thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Stress that's left untreated can contribute to various health problems. These include: - Anxiety
- Decreased energy levels
- Digestive dysfunction
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rate
- Heart disease
- Mental problems
Chiropractic serves as a powerful intervention for anxiety-related symptoms. Stress Health Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Balance Chiropractic benefits cardiovascular health as it directly affects the nervous and other body systems that include the spinal system, the bones, joints, and muscular system, affecting the function of the cardiovascular system. Chiropractic regulates these system's functions allowing for a moderate heart rate and blood pressure. Balanced blood pressure and heart rate can help minimize stress and anxiety, making it much easier to stay relaxed and focused. Individuals report experiencing decreased blood pressure and lower heart rate with long-term chiropractic treatment. Mental Clarity Cerebrospinal fluid/CSF is necessary for detoxifying the brain and helping to protect the brain. CSF transports oxygen and nutrients to the brain, helping to increase brain function efficiency. Chiropractic has been shown to increase the amount of cerebrospinal fluid delivered to the brain. This is because the spine is aligned correctly, allowing for a smooth flow of blood and nerve energy from the brain through the spine to the rest of the body. This provides: - Sustained mental alertness
- Awareness
- Mental Clarity
This helps to combat mental fog or anxiety hyperactivity. Improve Energy Levels Chiropractic can help increase energy levels in different ways for different individuals. - For some, this works by eliminating headaches, migraines, and other nerve dysfunction/s.
- For others, this happens by decreasing or eliminating pain symptoms.
These conditions can contribute to lowered energy levels. Constant stress can change the body's chemistry, leading to increased stress hormones like cortisol. Over time, these hormone releases can decrease energy, causing interference with the body/brain's natural rejuvenating processes that reduce stress. With chiropractic, the therapeutic effects help correct body chemistry and improve energy levels. Increase Immune Function Lymphatic fluid has a vital role in stress health and the function of the immune system. Lymphatic fluid helps separate and release: - Toxins
- Viruses
- Fungus
- Bacteria from the body.
When lymphatic fluid flows smoothly and is not impeded or trapped in tissues, joints, or muscles, the immune system operates at a high level. Chiropractic helps drive lymphatic fluid out of the tissues, joints, and muscles of the body, facilitating optimal immune function. General Disclaimer * The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, or licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN* email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico* References Dragoş, Dorin, and Maria Daniela Tănăsescu. "The effect of stress on the defense systems." Journal of medicine and life vol. 3,1 (2010): 10-8. Meier, Jacqueline Katharina et al. "Stress Alters the Neural Context for Building New Memories." Journal of cognitive neuroscience vol. 32,12 (2020): 2226-2240. doi:10.1162/jocn_a_01613 Pickar, Joel G. "Neurophysiological effects of spinal manipulation." The spine journal: official journal of the North American Spine Society vol. 2,5 (2002): 357-71. doi:10.1016/s1529-9430(02)00400-x
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A percussive massage can release tightness, maintain flexibility, relieve discomfort, alleviate stress, and improve circulation. For answers to any questions, you may have, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900 or 915-412-6677