5 Best Chiropractor Massage Guns in 2024
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy (21 years of Oly Lifting experience)
You may have returned home after a drop set or nine-to-five that your muscles and joints start begging for a soothing massage.
No need to visit a professional chiro or to settle on a pair of inexperienced hands. You can have the best chiropractor massage gun at home. Alternatively, you might be a chiro yourself and looking to upgrade your tools collection. There are so many details involved. You can’t buy the first model that meets your eye.
Lucky for you – we’ve done extensive research to compile this reliable list!
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Ekrin B37 Massage Gun.
Ekrin Athletics is a chiropractor massage gun comes in a premium case with various head attachments.
Top 5 Best Chiropractor Massage Guns Reviewed
- EKRIN B37 — Top Pick
- Sportneer Elite D9 — Runner-Up
- THERAGUN Prime – Premium Pick
- HYPERVOLT 2 Pro – Best for Runner
- EKRIN Bantam – Best for Travels
Product | Total | Power | Battery Life | Speed Options | Durability | Noise Level | Price/Quality |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ekrin B37 | 59.5 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 | 10 |
Sportneer D9 | 59 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
TheraGun Prime | 57 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 | 9.5 |
Hypervolt 2 Pro | 56.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10 | 9.5 | 8.5 |
Ekrin Bantam | 56 | 9 | 10 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 10 |
1. EKRIN B37
- Power: 56 lbs Stall Force
- Material: Plastic, Rubber
- Item Weight: 2.2 lbs
- Battery Life: 8 hours
- Color: Emerald Green
- Size: 5.91” x 3.15” x 2.36”
- Performance: 1400 to 3200 rpm
- Product Benefits/Use for: Recovery, Mobility, Self Myofascial Release
- Items Included: 4 Attachments, Travel Case, Battery Charger
- Special Features: 5 Speeds, Pro-Grade Power, Ergonomic Design
Ekrin Athletics has built a reputation in the market since its launch in 2019. Like its name, meaning “Explosive Movements” in Greek, the first chiropractic gun massager lived up to the hype.
This chiropractor massage gun comes in a premium case with various head attachments. You can target deep layers of large to medium muscle groups and fascia. You can expect top-notch performance with a brushless motor delivering up to 56 lbs of stall force and 12 mm percussion at five different speeds.
Ekrin gives a limited money-back and lifetime warranties for customer satisfaction. If we talk about ergonomics, the device is comfortable and simple to use.
There is one button, turning it on/off at long presses and switching speeds at quick taps. The 15-degree curve in the handle makes it reach all body muscles without weird arm positions. The diameter might feel a bit large. But silicone rubber ensures a non-slip grip. B37 is also unique in its extended top design, which makes for a firm two-handed grip.
Ekrin gives a limited money-back and lifetime warranties for customer satisfaction.
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2. Sportneer Elite D9
- Power: 40 lbs Stall Force
- Material: Plastic, Aluminum, Rubber
- Item Weight: 2.3 lbs
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours
- Color: Black
- Size: 8.5” x 7” x 2”
- Performance: 1300 to 3200 rpm
- Product Benefits/Use for: Recovery, Mobility, Self Myofascial Release
- Items Included: 6 Attachments, Travel Case, Charger, Silicon Rings
- Special Features: 6 Speeds, Intelligent Auto Off, Heat Dissipation
Shopping for chiropractor massage tools isn't easy. Earlier, there was only one option. Now, a lot of so-so-unknown brands have flooded Amazon. But Sportneer stands out from the crowd.
D9 boasts a good profile with up to 40 lb of stall force, 220-watt output, and 3200 hits per minute at its max speed. You can’t compare it to a professional chiropractic percussion tool since it has only an 11 mm stroke. But doing so is unjustified at the price point. Still, you'll get a moderate-level deep-tissue massage.
There are many reasons to like it. First, it’s near-silent at 30-45 decibels. So you won’t have to turn up the TV or sneak into a farther room. It’s reinforced with aluminum: hard-wearing but top-heavy! Then, it comes with six interchangeable heads. And two of them are metal flatheads. You can use them with oil or ice where foam attachments surrender.
It packs a 3350mAh Panasonic battery, lasting between 2-7 hours. There’s a small LED indicator to show the remaining juice. And auto-off feature saves unnecessary consumption.
Sportneer Elite D9 boasts a good profile with up to 40 lb of stall force, 220-watt output, and 3200 hits per minute at its max speed.
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3. THERAGUN Prime
- Power: 30 lbs Stall Force
- Material: Plastic, Rubber
- Item Weight: 2.2 lbs
- Battery Life: 2 hours
- Color: Black
- Size: 8.9” x 6.3” x 2.7”
- Performance: 1750 to 2400 rpm
- Product Benefits/Use for: Recovery, Mobility, Self Myofascial Release
- Items Included: 4 Attachments, Carrying Pouch, Power Adapter
- Special Features: 5 Speeds, QuietForce Technology, Therabody App
Therabody is close to royalty in the percussion therapy industry. The first TheraGun was introduced in 2016, way before the at-home massage fever caught fire. The fourth-gen line consists of Prime, Elite, and Pro models.
Prime may be the entry-level TheraGun. But it knows how to make an impression. The triangular multi-grip design is ergonomically and aesthetically superior. It's made of matte-finished hard plastic. Honestly, it isn't as slick as Ekrin's satin paint, but it has a premium vibe.
There is an easy-to-use power button with arrows for speed control and LED indicators. Its battery lasts for two hours. Before that 30 lbs of stall force disappoints you, remember it has 16 mm amplitude – according to the company, it reaches 60% deeper into muscles.
Heads attach with secure ball bearings. Round ones are tender. And the cone makes it a dedicated chiropractic trigger point gun. The coolest feature is the Therabody App. Once connected with Bluetooth, the app provides wellness tips, routines, and plenty of contactless adjustments.
THERAGUN Prime – Premium Pick and was introduced in 2016, way before the at-home massage fever caught fire.
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4. HYPERVOLT 2 Pro
- Power: 35 lbs Stall Force
- Material: Plastic, Rubber
- Item Weight: 2.6 lbs
- Battery Life: 3 hours
- Color: Black
- Size: 8” x 2.5” x 10.4”
- Performance: 1700 to 2700 rpm
- Product Benefits/Use for: Recovery, Mobility, Self Myofascial Release
- Items Included: 5 Attachments, Carrying Pouch, Power Adapters
- Special Features: 5 Speeds, New Digital Dial, Hyperice App
Hyperice directly competes with TheraGuns in the market. Opposed to the latter’s pure percussion treatment, it uses a vibration blend, which feels great. The Hypervolt 2 Pro is the most expensive gadget.
Hypervolt is runners' favorite due to the thoughtful collection of head attachments. The ball is suitable for large muscles, such as glutes and hamstrings. Then, the bullet precisely massages your sore feet. Athletes love a hammering fork for calf muscles, Achilles tendons, and spinal area.
To sum up – a 90W high-torque motor, hitting you 45 times in a second, can remedy all aches.
This chiropractic vibrating tool has a slimmer pill-shaped design. Instead of going through each speed, you can quickly rotate the dial. There are LEDs for the current mode, applied pressure, charging status, and Bluetooth connection.
Hyperice gives you app access. However, it doesn’t share performance features. We calculated its stroke length at 14 mm and stall force at around 35 lbs. At this price, you’d expect a more powerful performance.
Hypervolt is runners' favorite due to the thoughtful collection of head attachments.
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5. EKRIN Bantam
- Power: 35 lbs Stall Force
- Material: Plastic, Rubber
- Item Weight: 1.1 lbs
- Battery Life: 6 hours
- Color: Black/Green
- Size: 8.5” x 8.07” x 2.99”
- Performance: 2000 to 3200 rpm
- Product Benefits/Use for: Recovery, Mobility, Self Myofascial Release
- Items Included: 4 Attachments, Travel Case, USB Charger
- Special Features: 3 Speeds, Compact Design, Lifetime Warranty
After the breakout-hit success of its trailblazer B37, Ekrin released stronger B37S and 365 massage guns along with a mini-version – the strength of a beast, the size of a bantam!
Bantam is a scaled-down B37. It has got the same accessories, supports, and ergonomics. It allows one-button operation and a 15-degree tilt in the handle. Only the size and weight has been reduced to half.
You can easily slip it into a gym bag for a pre-workout massage or your hiking backpack to amp up endurance in the wilderness. Since TSA approved Ekrin's chiropractic percussion massagers, you won't have any problem taking them on an international vacay.
If we talk about performance, it's mind-blowing what this little sucker can do. The small components still provide excellent runtime, speed options, and percussion. Like other mini massage guns, it doesn't stall at 20 lbs or so.
The 10 mm amplitude is also decent, given the specific need it serves. Only the big-ticket TheraGun Mini brings a longer stroke length. If you need an on-the-go massage gun, Bantam is hard to beat.
The small components EKRIN Bantam still provide excellent runtime, speed options, and percussion.
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Why Do Chiropractors Use Massage Guns?
A massage gun is a vital tool in the arsenal of chiros or therapists. It's known for its instant muscle recuperation and injury prevention capabilities. There are multiple proven benefits of massage guns, such as:
✅ Reducing DOMS
DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is the post-workout stiffness and tightness in muscles. It can continue for days after an intense session. However, massage guns can reduce the time frame, allowing you to get going.
This 2014 study found vibration therapy and massage helpful in preventing DOMS and lactate buildup.
✅ Stimulating Blood Flow
The healing effect you experience at your chiro’s hands is thanks to massage guns. The constant high-frequency percussion at a particular area sends waves into blood vessels, activating efficient blood and lymphatic circulation.
This research by the Diabetes Technology Society endorses the benefits of whole-body vibration for nitric oxide production.
✅ Promoting Joint Mobility and Flexibility
Deep tissue massage improves tissue metabolism by releasing tension from the muscles. Since they connect to the bones via tendons and ligaments, massage therapy also affects joint mobility.
Two recent studies in 2019 and 2021 found massage tools good for the flexibility and mobility of lower extremities.
✅ Improving Athletic Performance
Celebrated athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo and James Harden are Therabody ambassadors. Why? If you’ve ever done sports, you know how important it is to stay fit and active.
As explained earlier, a massage gun helps you recover faster. It's beneficial for your performance whether you run, bike, or lift heavy weights.
✅ Supplementing Rehab Therapy
Chiropractors use percussion massage therapy to rehabilitate muscles after sciatica, spasms, back pain, or Carpal Tunnel and TMJ syndromes. It is used along with standard rehab practices to hasten recovery and prevent re-injury.
Many practitioners believe (although evidence is scant) that massage guns facilitate breaking up scar tissues. Thus, massage therapy is recommended after sports-related injuries and surgical scar tissue treatments.
What to Look For in Massage Guns?
Before purchasing a massage gun, there are three analyses: Power, Performance, and Price. Let’s unfold the nitty-gritty!
1. Power
- Percussion: It's a speed barometer calculated in RPM (revolutions or hits per minute). Most chiropractic massage guns have a range of 2000-3000 rpm.
- Stall Force: A high RPM must accompany a high stall force. It’s the amount of pressure it takes to halt the motor. A powerful device like Ekrin B37 will let you push deeper and punch heavier.
- Amplitude: Another important characteristic is amplitude, oscillation, or stroke length. It's the distance the head travels. More amplitude at a low speed will be more intense than low amplitude at a high speed.
Power Comparison | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Model | Percussion (max hits/sec) | Stall Force (lbs) | Amplitude (mm) | Total Units |
Erkin B37 | 53 | 56 | 11 | 121 |
Sportneer D9 | 53 | 40 | 11 | 104 |
Erkin Bantam | 53 | 35 | 10 | 98 |
Hypervolt 2 Pro | 45 | 35 | 14 | 94 |
TheraGun Prime | 40 | 30 | 16 | 86 |
2. Performance
- Battery Life: Every handheld device should have at least 60 minutes of runtime to reduce charging frequency.
- Speed Options: Almost all chiropractor massage tools come with more than one speed. It influences battery timing and RPM.
- Design & Durability: What can go wrong with a massage gun? Well, heavier devices with a non-angled, non-rubberized T-shaped handle can teach you that. But don’t trade durability for portability.
- Interchangeable Heads: Different attachments suit different applications. Make sure you have at least a ball and bullet head, as they come in handy. The more, the merrier!
- Noise Level: The motor generates a humming sound that progresses with speed and pressure. Some can be uncomfortably loud. And it’s best to avoid them. Otherwise, neck pain will transform into ringing ears.
Tips From the Champ
A massage gun is the secret charm of chiros and therapists. It helps you recover faster and go the extra mile in your training goals.
The best chiropractor massage gun, like Ekrin B37, allows you to start low and get tough on sore, tense muscles. Have you ever thought about investing in a percussion or vibromassage tool? Looking forward to your opinions and recommendations in the comment section!
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
3. Price
- Cost: The obvious factor! You must stay within your budget. TheraGuns are excellent, but expensive. Sportneer D9 is a powerful alternative.
- Warranty: A high-value investment must come with an assuring warranty. For example, Erkin gives you lifetime support.
- Extras: If you don’t include extras in price analysis, it can be apples and oranges. Look out for power adapters, spare batteries, travel bags, and app memberships.
How to Use Massage Guns?
Using a massage gun properly is necessary to get full advantage and avoid injury as well as damage to the product. That's why manufacturers send you instruction manuals. Read them thoroughly. Here is a laid-out process:
- Turn the device on. Make sure the battery is up for the session.
- Choose the head and intensity level.
- We recommend starting with low speed and universal ball attachment.
- Gently press against the targeted muscle. Don’t apply too much force early on. Move the head in a circle to cover the entire muscle.
- Apply more pressure with higher intensity and longer duration on larger muscles. For smaller muscles like wrists, 1-min therapy is enough.
- Don’t punch directly on bony regions. Brush against joints. Or you may end up injuring yourself.
FAQ
Why Do Chiropractors Use Massage Guns?
Chiros use massage guns for trigger point therapy and myofascial release. They have a host of benefits when it comes to muscle recovery, joint mobility, and injury prevention.
Where Should You Avoid Using a Massage Gun?
Don't use a massage gun on bony regions like the front of the neck, kidneys, and ankles. Also, refrain from hitting bruises and wounds directly.
Can You Damage Muscles With a Massage Gun?
Overdoing massage gun therapy can irritate the muscles. Chronic pain, inflammation, torn tendons, and nerve damage are a few potential consequences of improper handling.
Conclusion
A massage gun is the secret charm of chiros and therapists. It helps you recover faster and go the extra mile in your training goals.
The best chiropractor massage gun, like Ekrin B37, allows you to start low and get tough on sore, tense muscles. Have you ever thought about investing in a percussion or vibromassage tool? Looking forward to your opinions and recommendations in the comment section!
Also read:
- Theragun Vs Hypervolt
- Best Massage Gun For Athletes
- Best Budget Massage Gun
- Most Powerful Massage Gun
- Hypervolt or Theragun
- Massage Gun Benefits
- Massage Gun Heads Explained
References:
- A deeper massage. Longer-lasting relief. From performance to pain relief, nothing works like Theragun // Therabody: https://www.therabody.com/us/en-us/massage-guns/
- To Compare the Effect of Vibration Therapy and Massage in Prevention of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) // Ncbi: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3939523/
- Effect of Whole Body Vibration on Skin Blood Flow and Nitric Oxide Production // Ncbi: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4764225/
- Effects of Vibration and Non-Vibration Foam Rolling on Recovery after Exercise with Induced Muscle Damage // Pubmed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30787665/
- A critical evaluation of percussion massage gun devices as a rehabilitation tool focusing on lower limb mobility: A literature review // Osf: https://osf.io/preprints/sportrxiv/j9ya8/
- Pioneers of human performance // Therabody: https://www.therabody.com/us/en-us/ambassadors.html
- Is A Massage Gun Good For Sciatica? Will It Help? // Massagegunadvice: https://massagegunadvice.com/is-a-massage-gun-good-for-sciatica/
- Are Massage Guns Good for Back Pain? An Expert’s Perspective // Massagegunadvice: https://massagegunadvice.com/are-massage-guns-good-for-back-pain/
- Can A Massage Gun Break Up Scar Tissue? // Massforce: https://massforce.co/can-a-massage-gun-break-up-scar-tissue/
Why Trust Us?
With over 20 years in Olympic Weightlifting, our team does its best to provide the audience with ultimate support and meet the needs and requirements of advanced athletes and professional lifters, as well as people who strive to open new opportunities and develop their physical capabilities with us.
All products we select are primarily approved and tested by the Olympic Weightlifting Champion Oleksii Torokhtiy. Under his guidance, we provide honest and reasonable assessments of the products we review by checking their characteristics, packaging, design, comfort and durability features, and general product rating. We select products from only high-quality and trusted sports brands, thus vouching for their quality.
The product testing process is described in more detail here
Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.
Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
Best Results: Snatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg
Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.
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