Percussion therapy, also known as percussion massage, is a form of deep tissue massage that has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the use of rapid, repetitive movements to target specific muscle groups. Percussion therapy has been shown to offer numerous benefits to people dealing with injury-related pain.
What is Percussion Therapy?
Percussion therapy uses mechanical vibrations to break down the deepest layers of muscle tension and tightness. The treatment is often performed using a specialized handheld device known as a percussion massager or massage gun. The muscles are exposed to up to 2,800 percussions per minute. This encourages the flow of rich oxygenated blood to the affected muscles, leaving them feeling lighter, looser, and stronger.
Percussion therapy provides many benefits, including:
- Muscle recovery. By promoting blood flow and facilitating the removal of metabolic waste products from muscle tissue, percussion therapy can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up the recovery process after intense workouts.
- Pain relief. Deep tissue massage targets trigger points and knots in muscles, alleviating localized pain and discomfort.
- Improved flexibility and wider range of motion. Percussion therapy helps break up adhesions and scar tissue in the muscles and fascia, improving joint flexibility and range of motion.
- Increased blood flow. Two studies conducted in 2011 and 2014 found that percussion therapy reduces pain and inflammation by improving blood flow.
- Reduced stress. The relaxing effects of the percussion massage can promote better sleep and reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improved lymphatic flow. Percussion therapy can improve flow in the lymphatic system. This allows you to more easily get rid of toxins and waste, which can result in an overall healthier immune system and boosted metabolism.
- Enhanced circulation. Percussion therapy increases blood circulation, aiding in the healing of injuries and improving overall cardiovascular health.
- Muscle warm-up and activation. Percussion therapy provides an effective way to warm up the muscles before physical activity.
- Helps prevent Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). Several studies have shown that percussion therapy can increase muscle strength and help prevent DOMS.
Percussion massage techniques have been used in various other cultures throughout history. In China, percussion therapy was used in manual therapies such as Tui Na and Gua Sha. This early form of percussion therapy involved using manual percussion and scraping to promote blood circulation and alleviate muscle tension. Today, specially designed massage guns and other tools are used in deep percussion massage treatments. It is especially popular with athletes and physical therapists.
Percussion Therapy in Orange County, CA
Dr. Maruki of QualityAcu provides professional percussive therapy in Orange County, CA. People are attracted to percussive therapy because it offers quick relief from pain due to muscle soreness. In addition to muscle soreness, percussion therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including sciatica, herniated/bulging discs, muscle cramps and spasms, carpal tunnel syndrome, and more.
In addition to percussion therapy, QualityAcu offers a wide range of traditional Chinese medicine treatments, such as acupuncture, pain management, and cupping. Dr. Maruki takes a holistic approach to managing pain and stress, with treatments aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the pain rather than just managing its symptoms. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of percussion massage therapy, acupuncture, and other traditional Chinese treatments contact QualityAcu today through our website or call us at 714-532-2827. We’re located at 2832 E. Chapman Ave., a few blocks East of CA-55 S.
