Best Massage Guns of 2024
CR evaluated percussive massagers based on handle ergonomics, ease of use, and the postural stress they put on the body
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A percussive massager—sometimes known as a massage gun—offers a way to mimic some aspects of a deep tissue massage in your own home, without needing to enlist a massage therapist. These powered devices have a pulsating tip that can dig into muscles, work out knots, and relieve pain.
“Some people like to use massage guns as warm-up devices, some people like to use them for post-exercise soreness reduction,” says Paul Ritchey, doctor of public health and a human factors and ergonomics specialist in CR’s Consumer Experience and Usability Research program.
In recent years, people have also begun using these increasingly popular devices to temporarily alleviate the soreness associated with not only exercise but also the physical stress and stiffness from sitting in a chair all day. (Our previous story includes more general information about massage guns, and what to think about before you buy one.)
