Shelby Milne, an athletic trainer at the University of Pennsylvania, says athletes at the school swear by massage guns and have used them for both pre- and post-training. What this does is allow the increased blood flow to decrease the inflammatory response, decrease muscle soreness, and break up knots in athletes' musculature.' Plonksi has seen anecdotal evidence supporting the use of a Theragun-like device, and no apparent negative effects, but she recommends people always talk to a physician before trying a device. Mechanical stimulation of a muscle causes increased blood flow and the release of histamines to the stimulated area.

'As we exercise and challenge our muscles, we cause breakdown within the muscle fibers, which in turn stimulates muscle growth and regrowth, hypertrophy (increased muscle size), and strength. Jacklyn Plonski, an outpatient orthopedic and pediatric physical therapist, likens percussive therapy devices to using a foam roller or getting a professional physical therapy treatment. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day. This includes unlimited access to and our print magazine (if you'd like). Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off). Julian Chokkattu and Jaina Grey also contributed to this guide. We've also removed other options that are no longer available and updated prices throughout. Updated November 2023: We've added the three newest Theragun devices, the Pro Plus, Sense, and Relief. Just be sure to check each one's compatibility. Most importantly, you can buy foam tips separately, so don't think you have to buy the Theragun Pro to get the relief you need.

If you decide to get a Theragun, there are additional accessories available. In this guide, you’ll find a mix of both for all budgets-plus helpful information from a physical therapist and athletic trainer on how these devices can help our bodies. There are plenty of Theragun alternatives out there for hundreds of dollars less. We’ve tested and like the entire range, but they’re expensive. Theraguns (made by Therabody) tend to be some of the most popular. Massage guns, also known as percussive therapy devices, help relax and soothe sore muscles, whether you’re an athlete or just hunching over a desk all day.

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