In today’s hyperconnected, always-staring-at-the-screen lifestyle, neck pain is the new headache. It can creep in anytime, as you scroll through Instagram, attend back-to-back Zoom calls, or while you clench up during your morning commute. But we all love a quick fix, and since it is also fun and relaxes muscles, you would not want to know what it could actually do to you. Yes, we are talking about massage guns.
It looks harmless, feels powerful, and promises relief. But if you are thinking of pressing it into your neck to get rid of that tightness, just stop. While massage guns are incredibly effective for loosening up tight muscles in your back, shoulders, and thighs, they are not built for delicate zones like your neck.
Why? Because your neck is not just holding up your head; it is home to your cervical spine, essential nerves, and crucial arteries. Rattling this area with a high-powered percussive device is not just ineffective, but it could, in rare cases, turn seriously dangerous.
At best, using a massage gun on the soft parts of your neck might result in minor tissue irritation.
At worst? It could disrupt blood flow or trigger stroke-like symptoms. That gentle vibration you think is soothing your stress away might be putting dangerous pressure on arteries like the vertebral or carotid, especially if you are targeting the sides or front of your neck or near the base of your skull.
Although it is perfectly safe to use on many parts of your body below the neckline. The trapezius muscles are a great spot for a bit of percussive TLC. So is the upper back. These are thick, meaty muscle groups that can handle the rhythmic thump of a massage gun.
Possible causes of neck pain
It might stem from “tech neck”, the new-age affliction caused by craning over devices all day. Or perhaps it is your pillow causing it night after night. Maybe it is stress, or maybe it is just poor posture catching up with you. Whatever the cause, if a week of at-home remedies has not helped, it is time to consult a doctor and not rely on a massage gun.
What you can do for neck pain relief instead
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Gentle screeching: Slow neck tilts and rotations can ease stiffness.
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Heat therapy: A warm compress can work wonders for tight muscles.
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Manual massage: A light hand massage or a professional one can soothe tension without the risks.
- Posture checks: Raise your screen, straighten your back, and give your neck the alignment it deserves.
