Percussion massagers are gaining popularity for myofascial release of tight muscles. When you have knotted muscles from tension, overwork, or injury, myofascial release provides effective relief. Apply the massager to your knot, and the tension dissolves, leaving only comfort.
Myofascial release initially gained traction using hard foam rollers and tennis or lacrosse balls. Users would position themselves on the roller (or ball) to apply pressure to the knot, then move back and forth to work the knot from the muscle. While this method works, it demands considerable acrobatic skills to engage certain muscles. It can also be painful as your full weight rests on a ball or roller.
Deep tissue percussion massagers represent a new development designed to replace balls and rollers. These devices pulse repeatedly to massage tissue and release tension. You guide the pulsing head over your muscle, and it works out the knot.
Percussion massagers differ from traditional vibrating massagers as well. Traditional massagers move very fast but cover minimal distance. They don’t work the muscle intensely unless you press them into the knot. With percussion massagers, the motion is slower (though still quite fast) and much more pronounced.
These devices promise relief from soreness and tension while also increasing flexibility. One such tool is the Hypervolt percussion massager from Hyperice. How well does it deliver?
About Hypervolt
The Hypervolt is the entry-level massager from Hyperice. It’s a rechargeable cordless device with an ergonomic design. Five different heads come with the massager to target various muscles. This adjustable-speed device was engineered for quiet operation.
Advantages
- Multiple massage heads, including a two-pronged head and a bullet tip for pinpoint targeting
- Extended battery life
- Quiet operation – unusual for percussion massagers
- Unique cross-shaped design gives you multiple ways to hold it to reach any muscle
Disadvantages
- Expensive – costs more than twice as much as similar models on Amazon
- No carrying case included
- No swappable batteries. When the charge runs down, you must stop and recharge
About HyperIce
The Hypervolt comes from Hyperice, a company specializing in deep massagers for myofascial release. Beyond the percussion massage gun, they manufacture massagers in various shapes to help athletes recover. Their lineup includes vibrating rollers, balls, and ice compression wraps for most major joints.
Hyperice is dedicated to helping athletes recover from workouts. The Hypervolt – and all their products – are designed to help your body return to normal after intense training. Their website features a comprehensive page of video tutorials showing how to maximize the massagers’ effectiveness.
How Percussion Massagers Work
Percussion massagers penetrate deep into muscle tissue, then release pressure almost instantly. The deep vibrations loosen tight muscles, improve blood flow, and help reduce swelling. They also expand range of motion by allowing muscles to extend fully.
This process is called myofascial release. It’s named for the fascia, tough connective tissue that surrounds muscles. When muscles are overworked or held tense under stress, the fascia bunches up. This bunching appears as knots in the tissue.
Deep tissue massage and foam rolling cause the fascia to stretch and release. When done sufficiently, the fascia releases completely, and the muscle returns to full range of motion. Deep percussion massagers work similarly, but more efficiently. Because they oscillate in and out so many times per second, these massagers achieve fascia release much faster.
Safety
Deep percussion massagers are safe for treating sore muscles, knots from tension, knots from overwork, and scar tissue. They should not be used to treat actual injuries – torn muscles or damaged joints require medical attention.
Deep percussion massagers may not be safe if you are pregnant or taking blood thinners. If these conditions apply to you, consult a doctor before using a deep tissue massager.
Where to Buy the Hypervolt
Hypervolt deep tissue massagers are available online directly from Hyperice for $349. They’re also sold at brick-and-mortar retailers like REI and Best Buy for the same price.
Is Hypervolt Worth the Money?
Determining whether an expensive massager justifies its cost can be challenging. If you’re a pro athlete or consistently push your body to its limits, the Hypervolt is likely worthwhile. You can use the deep percussion massager to recover from workouts faster and prepare for your next session.
It’s also valuable if you suffer from chronic muscle pain. Many people with severe and ongoing muscle aches find relief from a massager like the Hypervolt. It’s faster and more comfortable than a foam roller. It also outperforms foam rollers with certain problems simply because it can work the muscle repeatedly in a short timeframe.
Finally, the Hypervolt merits consideration if you suffer from chronic tension knots. It’s the fastest, easiest way to work them out. You should also check out our Chirp Wheel review for a more affordable product designed specifically for back pain.
If you occasionally use a foam roller to release tension, the Hypervolt probably isn’t suitable for you. It’s an expensive solution to an infrequent problem.
