By now, everyone has a percussive massager (like a TheraGun or a generic alternative) in their gym bag. They feel great, they look cool, and they provide instant relief. But as physiotherapists, we see a growing trend in 2026: The “Masking” Effect.
How They Actually Work
Percussive therapy works primarily through the Gate Control Theory of Pain. The rapid vibration “distracts” your nervous system so it stops sending pain signals to your brain.
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The Good: It reduces muscle soreness perception and increases temporary blood flow.
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The Bad: It doesn’t actually “break up” scar tissue (that’s a myth) and it doesn’t fix the underlying cause of your tightness.
When to Put the Device Down
If you have a “tight” calf and you massage it every day for two weeks, but it never gets better—stop. You might be “masking” a Grade 1 muscle tear or even a stress fracture. Vibration on a stress fracture is like hitting a cracked windshield with a hammer.
Our Advice: Use your massager for a 2-minute pre-workout “wake up” or a light post-workout “cool down.” But if you need it just to get through the day, there is a mechanical issue that a vibrating motor cannot fix.
Click here to book in an assessment now: https://recovery-physio.au1.cliniko.com/bookings?appointment_type_id=488955
Or call us here 0421 867 437
