Be careful before using massage guns on your neck, ‘specifically the front and side’

Massage guns have surged in popularity as a convenient at-home tool for relieving muscle soreness and tension. With their powerful percussive therapy, these handheld devices can work wonders on large muscle groups like the back, shoulders, and legs. 

However, experts are sounding the alarm about the dangers of using massage guns on one particularly vulnerable area: the neck. Dr Kunal Sood shares a reel on Instagram, advising caution when using the massage gun on your neck, “specifically the front and the side.”

 

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A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood) 

Dr Dharitri Rajbangshi, senior physiotherapist and corporate wellness head at Physiotattva agrees with Dr Sood, “Massage guns are a great tool for easing muscle tension, but using them on your neck can be risky.”

Potential risks and dangers

Using a massage gun on your neck can lead to serious injuries because this area is delicate and complex, says Dr Rajbangshi. Here are some specific risks:

Vascular Damage: Your neck contains major blood vessels like the carotid arteries. Too much pressure can harm these vessels, possibly leading to life-threatening conditions such as strokes.

Nerve Damage: The neck houses critical nerves that can be easily damaged by the intense vibrations of a massage gun, causing pain, numbness, or even paralysis.

Spinal Injuries: The cervical spine is especially vulnerable to excessive force, which can result in disc herniation or other spinal issues.

Specific anatomical features of the neck that make it particularly vulnerable

Dr Rajbangshi explains, “The neck is a complex part of your body with vital structures such as the spinal cord, vertebrae, arteries, veins, and numerous nerves. This makes it highly susceptible to injury from the powerful vibrations of a massage gun.” 

Additionally, she adds, the vertebrae in your cervical spine are smaller and more fragile than those in other parts of your spine, increasing the risk of injury.

The neck is a complex part of your body with vital structures (Source: Freepik)

Documented cases and studies

According to Dr Rajbangshi, there are documented cases and studies that highlight the dangers of using massage guns improperly. “For example, a study in the Journal of Medical Case Reports discussed instances of carotid artery dissection caused by aggressive neck manipulation. While this study didn’t focus on massage guns specifically, it shows the potential dangers of applying intense mechanical force to the neck area.”

Safer alternatives for neck tension

If you’re dealing with neck tension and muscle soreness, Dr Rajbangshi suggests you try these safer alternatives:

Manual Massage: A gentle, hands-on massage from a trained therapist can effectively relieve tension without the risks associated with massage guns.

Stretching Exercises: Regular neck stretches can help alleviate tension and improve flexibility.

Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress can relax your muscles and reduce stiffness.

Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises and treatments to safely address specific neck issues.

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