Theragun Bouncing: Understanding Causes, Prevention, and Optimal Use

Why does my theragun bounce?

The bouncing sensation experienced with a Theragun or similar percussive therapy device is typically a result of improper application technique, high muscle tension, or the device's settings, rather than a malfunction. It indicates that the device's percussions are not being fully absorbed by the target tissue.

Understanding Percussive Therapy Devices

Percussive therapy devices, such as the Theragun, are designed to deliver rapid, short-amplitude pulses deep into muscle tissue. This mechanical action aims to:

• Increase blood flow: Enhances circulation to the treated area.
• Reduce muscle soreness and stiffness: Helps to break up adhesions and release tension.
• Improve range of motion: Facilitates muscle relaxation and flexibility.
• Aid in warm-up and recovery: Prepares muscles for activity and assists in post-exercise repair.

The device's motor drives an attachment head that oscillates back and forth at a high frequency, creating the percussive effect. For this effect to be optimally absorbed, the device needs to be applied correctly.

The Primary Reasons for Bouncing

When your Theragun bounces, it's a sign that the percussive force isn't being effectively transmitted into the muscle. Several factors contribute to this:

Improper Application Technique

• Excessive Pressure: A common mistake is pressing too hard into the muscle. Percussive devices are designed to do the work; you should "float" the device over the skin, allowing its amplitude and frequency to penetrate. Too much manual pressure prevents the percussive head from oscillating freely and causes it to rebound.
• Incorrect Angle: Applying the device at an acute angle (not perpendicular) to the muscle surface can cause the attachment head to skip or bounce off the skin, rather than delivering direct percussions.
• Moving Too Quickly: Rapidly gliding the device across the skin doesn't allow sufficient time for the percussions to sink into the muscle tissue, leading to a superficial, bouncing sensation.
• Gliding vs. Pressing: Percussive therapy is not a "gliding" massage. While you move the device, the primary action is the direct percussion. If you're trying to slide it like a traditional massager, it will likely bounce.

Muscle Tension and Anatomy

• High Muscle Tone/Rigidity: Very tight, dense, or rigid muscles can be less yielding, causing the percussive head to rebound off the surface. The muscle isn't "absorbing" the impact effectively.
• Bony Prominences or Thin Tissue Areas: When applied over areas with little muscle mass, such as directly over bones (e.g., shin, collarbone, shoulder blade edges) or joints, there's insufficient soft tissue to absorb the impact, leading to a pronounced bouncing effect and potential discomfort.
• Fascial Restrictions: Adhesions or significant fascial restrictions can create uneven surfaces that the device struggles to engage smoothly.

Device Settings and Condition

• High Speed/Frequency Settings: While higher speeds can be effective for some, they can also make the device harder to control, especially for beginners or on sensitive areas. The rapid movement can exacerbate bouncing if not handled precisely.
• Attachment Head Selection: Certain attachments, particularly harder or pointier ones (like the cone or thumb attachment), are designed for targeted, deep work. On less muscular or more sensitive areas, these can feel more aggressive and prone to bouncing compared to softer, broader attachments (like the dampener or ball).
• Low Battery: Although less common, a device operating on a very low battery might not maintain its consistent percussive power, potentially leading to uneven application and a sensation of bouncing as the motor struggles.

How to Prevent Bouncing and Optimize Your Session

To ensure an effective and comfortable percussive therapy session without bouncing, consider the following techniques:

• Start Slow and Light: Begin with the lowest speed setting and minimal pressure. Gradually increase speed or pressure as your muscles adapt and you gain control.
• Let the Device Do the Work: Hold the device lightly and allow its percussive action to penetrate. Imagine you're "floating" it over the muscle, not pressing it in.
• Perpendicular Application: Always strive to apply the attachment head as perpendicularly as possible to the muscle surface. This ensures direct impact and optimal absorption.
• Move Slowly and Deliberately: Glide the device slowly, about an inch per second, allowing each percussion cycle to fully engage the tissue. Hold it in one spot for 15-30 seconds if targeting a specific knot.
• Proper Attachment Selection: Choose the appropriate attachment for the muscle group. Use broader, softer heads for larger muscles and sensitive areas, and more targeted heads for specific knots or trigger points once you're comfortable.
• Relax the Muscle: Try to relax the target muscle as much as possible. Tense muscles will resist the percussion and increase bouncing. Deep breathing can help.
• Avoid Bony Areas: Never apply the device directly over bones, joints, or delicate areas like the neck's front, major arteries, or nerve bundles.
• Maintain Battery Charge: Ensure your device is adequately charged before use to guarantee consistent performance.

When to Seek Professional Advice

While bouncing is usually a technique issue, if you consistently experience discomfort, pain, or suspect a device malfunction, it's advisable to:

• Consult a certified personal trainer, physical therapist, or kinesiologist: They can demonstrate proper technique and guide you on appropriate usage for your specific needs.
• Contact the device manufacturer: If you've ruled out technique issues and believe the device itself is faulty, reach out to customer support.

Conclusion

The bouncing sensation from your Theragun is almost always a solvable issue related to how the device is being used. By understanding the principles of percussive therapy and applying mindful, precise techniques – focusing on light pressure, correct angles, and deliberate movement – you can eliminate bouncing and unlock the full benefits of deep tissue muscle relief and recovery. Practice makes perfect in mastering this powerful self-care tool.