Yes, massage guns are good for relieving back pain, as well as pain in other parts of the body. However, like any tool, a massage gun is only as good as the handler's skill allows. Furthermore, if you have an underlying problem that's causing your pain, a massage gun won't heal it.

In this article I'll discuss massage guns, their benefits, and their weaknesses.

What Are Massage Guns?

A massage gun is a handheld device that's designed to help you massage your own muscles. There are tons of different types of massage guns on the market, but most fall into one of two categories: electrical and pneumatic.

The main difference between these two types of massage guns is that electrical massage guns use an electrical current to create vibrations, while pneumatic massage guns use compressed air. Electrical massage guns tend to be smaller in size and offer a much finer vibration, while pneumatic massage guns are generally larger in size and offer a deeper, more targeted vibration.

How Do Massage Guns Work?

Simply put, it isn't fully known how massage guns work. There are theories that vibrations from the massage gun stimulate a structure within muscular cells that prevents contraction. Others think that the gun simply overrides the sensation of pain, the same way you rub your elbow after bashing it into something.

It's morel likely that massage guns work like other vibrating tools like foam rollers. The vibration focuses the brain on the tense are of the muscle so that it can release that tension.

Can Massage Guns Help You Get Rid of Back Pain?

Many people have reported that massage guns can help relieve back pain.

When it comes to managing back pain, remember that back pain is often caused by tension, muscle tightness and/or muscle spasms. To use the massage gun properly, it's important to focus on the areas of your back that are most in need of release.

In general, massage guns should be used to massage your muscles in the direction of the spines. This is because your body's natural alignment relies on the direction of your spine. If your muscles are misaligned, they will increase your risk of experiencing back pain. So, if you use a massage gun to massage your muscles in the direction of the spine, you, it's more likely to be effective.

Now, let's get to the catch.

When Massage Guns Don't Work

Massage guns are best suited for people who are experiencing mild to moderate back pain caused by muscle tightness or muscle spasms. If you are experiencing severe back pain, you will likely find that massage guns are not strong enough to help you to release your tight muscles.

Another thing to consider is that your back pain might not be caused by muscle stiffness. There might be some underlying injury or problem that is causing your back pain. In this case, a massage gun will be an expensive mistake.

Before you take the leap and buy a massage gun, get an evaluation by a chiropractor. Dr. Nathan Wood is a Denver chiropractor who has helped hundreds of patients with their back pain. He can find out if there's an underlying problem causing your pain. Furthermore, chiropractic, massage therapy and dry needling are proven techniques performed by professional.

The Bottom Line

Massage guns are a good tool for self-massage, particularly when you are experiencing mild to moderate back pain caused by muscle tightness or muscle spasms. If you are hoping to manage your back pain with massage guns alone, however, you will be disappointed. This is because back pain is a complex issue that usually requires a combination of multiple techniques.

Your best bet for solving back pain is to see a chiropractor to understand what's causing your pain and get relief. Most patients who visit Uptown Denver Chiropractor, Spine, Injury & Laser start feeling relief after their first visit.