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<\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\nWhy Trust Us and Some Disclaimer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This article is prepared from a massage gun expert\u2019s point of view. Research on massage guns is limited, but we have reviewed several resources to ensure that we provide the most reliable and accurate information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We also extensively test massage guns <\/strong>and have a transparent process<\/a> in place <\/span>for that. We have personally tested all devices listed in this article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition, this post has been written by a licensed physiotherapist, Dr. Alex Stone, DPT<\/a>., and reviewed by Gary Tanchak, D.C<\/a>. We encourage you to check with your medical doctor before using any of the advice given here.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This is an informative post and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n Safety should always be your priority during a pregnancy, so it\u2019s essential to have regular checkups with your doctor and talk about which activities are safe for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If any of the following problems come up during your pregnancy, massage may not be a safe<\/strong> option for you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s always ess<\/span>ential to listen to your body when trying new self-care techniques, including massage guns, so be sure to use caution and approach them gently. If something doesn\u2019t feel right, stop and seek further medical advice from your doctor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Massage therapy for pregnancy has long been a favored treatment because it is effective<\/strong> in managing the aches<\/strong> and pains that arise over time, and can be very relaxing <\/strong>and<\/span> enjoyable<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, researchers have studied the many benefits of massage therapy during pregnancy. In addition to helping relieve symptoms such as muscle pain and headaches, massage therapy may also improve mood and reduce anxiety by enhancing the release of \u201cfeel-good chemicals\u201d like dopamine and serotonin\u200b1\u200b<\/sup><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, reduced pain and improved mood may lead to improved sleep, which in turn improves recovery from daily life and contributes to the health of both mother and baby in many ways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But can you use a massage gun while pregnant? There are many factors to consider (keep reading), but massage guns seem to be gaining traction<\/strong> as a treatment option during pregnancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to the safety of using massage gun during pregnancy, the details are crucial. Yes, massage guns can be safe and effective for expectant mothers, provided they’re used with care and awareness. First and foremost, massage during first trimester of pregnancy<\/strong><\/strong> is not recommended.<\/strong> During this time, your baby is going through rapid development, meaning it will be more vulnerable to the risks of miscarriage, and additional stress from traditional massage or use of your massage gun may increase the risk of pregnancy complications\u200b2\u200b<\/sup><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This means that you\u2019ll want to focus on safe use of your second and massage gun during pregnancy third trimester<\/strong>, where concerns of affecting fetal development are much lower. Safety first!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another critical factor is the intensity<\/strong> of your massage gun while pregnant. Most things are safe in moderation, but knowing how much is ‘too much’ can be the difference between safe and unsafe treatment. For this reason, it\u2019s essential to do your homework and learn best practices to maximize your effectiveness and safety (see \u2018Can I use a massage gun while pregnant<\/em>?, but how?\u2019<\/em> below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n In many ways, the effects of your massage gun can be likened to those of a deep tissue massage. The question then becomes: can you have a deep tissue massage in pregnancy? <\/em>If so, where can you have this type of massage?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s shed some light on this topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Let\u2019s first talk about the areas where not<\/mark><\/span><\/strong> to massage a pregnant woman:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hopefully, this one is obvious, but you\u2019ll want to make sure you avoid this area because direct percussive force over your abdomen can very easily cause damage<\/strong> to your developing baby. Do not attempt to massage this area with your massage gun at any point in your pregnancy. Avoid the Lower Back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although it might be tempting to go after the aches and pains in your lower back – after all, this is a very common area of discomfort for many women during pregnancy – you will need to avoid your lower back <\/strong>because direct force over this area will also cause unwanted vibration around your developing baby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Related post: are massage guns good for back pain?<\/a><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n Avoid the Hips and Legs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While it might seem safe to perform a deep tissue massage on your lower extremities, using a massage gun on legs while pregnant, you should use caution here because of blood clotting risks<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Many women are at an increased risk of developing blood clots during their pregnancies because of changes in hormone production and body proportions. Providing a deep tissue massage could dislodge a blood clot and allow it to travel up to the heart or lungs\u200b3\u200b<\/sup><\/span>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n Okay, now let\u2019s talk about where you can use<\/mark><\/span><\/strong> your massage gun when pregnant:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dealing with body changes and pregnancy-related stress can increase tension in your neck and shoulders, and this area usually responds well<\/strong> to a good massage. You may want to look at our in-depth article on using a massage gun for your neck<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n Your arms will generally build up tension throughout the day from everyday activities like lifting and carrying, or from chipping away at that long list of emails (sound familiar?). Everything from your hands to your shoulders can benefit from massage here, just be sure to avoid sensitive or bony areas<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n Carrying around more weight around your abdomen often leads to changes in posture, which place more stress on your upper back (also called your thoracic spine). This area responds very well to massage because muscle issues typically cause tension and pain in this area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take special care to avoid using your massage gun directly over your spine. Because your upper back and lower back are directly connected, we don\u2019t recommend going any lower than the bottom of your shoulder blades<\/strong> to avoid vibrating your abdomen. If you\u2019re unsure about how low to go, talk to your medical doctor.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n If you know that it is ok to use massage gun while pregnant, follow these basic steps for the best results:<\/p>\n\n\n\n TIP:<\/mark><\/span><\/strong> For more details, refer to our guide on how to use the massage gun properly and effectively<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Theragun is credited as the original percussion massage gun expert, and they have many great (but expensive) options for doing percussive massage therapy at home. If you can afford the high ticket price, Theragun while pregnant may be the best option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ho<\/span>wever, remember that while Theragun products are great for almost any job, they are high-amplitude devices<\/a> (16mm) and, in our opinion, can feel a bit punchy for some users. Their high amplitude makes them best suited for a proper deep-tissue massage, but remember that this means they percuss less intensively<\/strong> (up to 2450 hits per minute).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The main difference between Theragun models is their stall force<\/strong> (the force required to stop the motor from revving). For an in-depth analysis, you can read our comparison of Theragun models<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n Our Recommendation:<\/mark><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n We believe the best Theragun while pregnant is the Theragun Prime<\/strong> (you can also opt for a refurbished one for a lower price).<\/p>\n\n\n\n We chose the Thera Gun Prime as our top pick because it checks most of our boxes without breaking the bank – that is, you\u2019ll get a good massage that isn\u2019t completely overpowering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We also think that the Theragun mini<\/strong> is a nice option for relieving some muscle tension while keeping your massage on the gentle side.<\/p>\n\n\n More powerful Theragun models, su<\/span>ch as the Elite and PRO, may have useful features like an adjustable arm and spare batteries, but they likely won\u2019t get<\/strong> much use<\/strong> during your pregnancy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Why not?<\/em> The most obvious downside to the Theragun brand is its price<\/strong>. While they deliver on many features, such as stall force and amplitude, they\u2019re also some of the most expensive options on the market today. You can check current prices at<\/mark> Therabody.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Theragun started the massage gun industry, but the competition is constantly challenging their innovation. There are now many <\/strong>less expen<\/strong><\/span>sive options that offer<\/strong> similar benefits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As far as warranties go, Theragun doesn\u2019t offer much. You can get a one-year warranty with most models, and a two-year warranty with the PRO model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While higher-level models come equipped with several attachments and a carrying case, lower-tier models are more bare-bones. For example, the Prime model does not come with a case, and the mini model only comes with the standard ball attachment and a pouch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Theragun isn\u2019t the only established deep tissue percussion massage gun name in the market today, and Hyperice\u2019s Hypervolt may be considered their top competitor. We cover the details of the main differences between the two in our Theragun vs Hypervolt post<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The big difference between Hypervolt and Theragun products lies in their stroke length<\/strong> and speed. Theragun products tend to be more \u2018punchy\u2019 because of their longer stroke length, whereas Hypervolts feel more \u2018vibrational\u2019 because they have a shorter stroke length with higher speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In fact, even the new Hypervolt 2 and 2 Pro models, which clock in at 12mm and 14mm stroke lengths, respectively, do not quite match up to their Theragun counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, these devices have a higher speed than similar Theragun options<\/strong>, giving a more vibrating massage gun while pregnant in comparison (2700 hits per minute versus Theragun\u2019s 2450 hits per minute – we measured and verified both these speeds). For some people, such a setup actually feels more intense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Because of how easily it stalls, we aren\u2019t big fans of Hyperice\u2019s miniature option: the Hypervolt Go 2<\/a>. Just know that there are better-performing options at the same price point<\/strong> (see \u201cmore affordable pregnancy massage gun\u201d below).<\/p>\n\n\n Our Recommendation:<\/mark><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Considering the available options, we believe the Hypervolt 2<\/strong><\/em> is the best Hypervolt when pregnant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We chose the Hypervolt 2 because in our tests<\/a>, it checked some of our boxes without hitting the premium price point of the Hypervolt 2 Pro.<\/p>\n\n\n\n More importantly, it has a stroke length of 12mm<\/strong>, which is a kind of sweet spot. It will be well enough for use on your arms and back.<\/p>\n\n\n Is the Hypervolt 2 Pro really that bad? Well, due<\/span> to its high price point relative to the 14mm stroke length, it may not be the most practical option for most future mothers looking to receive a good massage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the Hypervolt 2 Pro could be used in its full capacity after pregnancy has ended, including areas like the hips and thighs, where more force can be helpful, adding more value<\/strong> to the original purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Based on our experience with both brands’ products, we be<\/span>lieve Hypervolt attachments offer a more varied selection than Theragun options overall. However, it’s worth noting that they\u2019re all made of hard plastic, except for the standard semi-soft ball.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want a really soft attachment<\/strong> for sensitive areas, you\u2019ll have to get the Theragun SuperSoft attachment. It is only included with the Theragun PRO model, or you need to buy<\/a><\/span> it separately.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Having experimented with most options on the market today, we can recommend some strong competition at a lower price point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ekrin <\/strong>is a young and aspiring American brand that offers many excellent, slightly more vibrational alternatives to Theragun and HyperVolt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We extensively tested all of their devices and voted the Ekrin 365 <\/strong>the best massage gun for women<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We believe the Ekrin 365<\/strong> is one of the best massagers availa<\/span>ble, and future mothers will appreciate its ergonomic design and lightweight nature.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nImportant Health Considerations<\/h2>\n\n\n
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![\"can](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/can-you-use-a-massage-gun-while-pregnant.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/figure>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCan You Get a Massage While Pregnant? Check These Benefits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"can](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/massage-gun-during-pregnancy-1024x683.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
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\n\n\n\nMassage Gun Safe for Pregnancy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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However, there are certain considerations you should be aware of.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n![\"massage](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/are-massage-guns-safe-during-pregnancy.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
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\n\n\n\n Where not to Massage a Pregnant Woman<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\nAvoid the Abdomen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Related post: Can you use a massage gun on the abdomen?<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n
\n\n\nWhere not to massage a pregnant woman back<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\nMassage gun on hip while pregnant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\nCan be used on the Neck and Shoulders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\nCan be used on Arms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\nCan be used on the Upper Back<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nGuidelines for Using a Massage Gun for Pregnancy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nTheragun Pregnancy: Which One Should You Use?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"theragun](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/theragun-4th-gen-massage-guns-1024x585.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"theragun](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/theragun-mini-in-a-male-hand.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n![\"theragun](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/holding-theragun-prime-massager.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n\n
This is because you won\u2019t be massaging the largest muscle groups in your body – your hips and thighs – so you won\u2019t have much use for the industry-leading stall force of the PRO and Elite models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAre There Any Downsides to Theragun During Pregnancy?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCan You Use Hypervolt while Pregnant?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"can](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/hypervolt-percussion-massage-guns-2-generation-1024x683.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a>![\"hypervolt](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/hypervolt-2-small-hand-ergonomic.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"hypervolt](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/in-woman-hand-hypervolt-2-massage-gun.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"hypervolt](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/hypervolt-2-relaxing-woman-massage-gun.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nMassage Gun Heads: Their Importance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"theragun](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/theragun-pro-supefsoft-foam-head.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"hypervolt](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/hypervolt-attachments-set-5-heads.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
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\n\n\n\nTheragun Alternatives Worth Recommending<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nEkrin Athletics – Lightweight and Ergonomic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"ekrin](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/ekrin-athletics-365-balanced-handle.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"ekrin](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/ekrin-365-Touchsense-control-panel.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"i](\"https:\/\/massagegunadvice.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/soft-ball-attachment-on-ekrin-365.jpg\" "\\"\\"")
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