Do not settle for anything less than High-Quality & Exceptional performance!
✅Lifetime warranty!
Prime Day Sales. Up to 42% off⬇️
Your HSA/FSA expires on 31st Dec. All Ekrin massage guns are HSA/FSA eligible!
25% to 35% Discount is applied at checkout. For the best deals, click here →
Do you know how to use massage gun attachments? We will show you how in our article.
We’ll tell you how to choose the proper attachment, which ones you must have, and which massage attachment for which body part. If you stick around, you might also learn how Theragun attachments are radically different. Read on for more!
TIP: For those looking for information on how massage gun heads are built, what materials manufacturers use, or how to take care of them, we have a dedicated post here.
Since massager heads are the only part of the massage gun that comes in contact with the body (in a therapeutic way), their selection is crucial for an effective massage experience.
Here’s why:
So, which massage gun attachments should you choose for which body part? Hang on; we’ll discuss it in a moment.
Which massage gun attachment to use? In this article, we have massage gun heads explained.
We discuss how many attachments you really need. It’s 4-6 pieces. So here are the crucial ones to look out for, their main purposes, and some facts to know:
This type is the most commonly used. If your massage gun already includes one, it’s probably the ball attachment. As the name suggests, it’s round.
Purpose
This is the general-purpose one that is used on most parts of your body. It works better on large and medium muscle groups such as the deltoids, glutes, and hamstrings. As a first-time user, this is your go-to attachment.
Build
It may be made of hard plastic, EVA foam (a popular option), silicone, or an air cushion (which we’ll discuss later).
What to know
Theraguns have one they call “Standard Ball,” but it’s radically different from the conventional ball—it’s more of a half-ball but doesn’t miss out on the experience.
It’s the second most popular and offers a more robust experience than the ball head.
Purpose
The flat head massage gun is denser and harder than the ball attachment, making it more effective. It’s versatile for most body parts and excels at addressing stubborn knots in large muscle groups such as the pecs, glutes, and back. We’ve enjoyed using it, especially on the glutes, hamstrings, calves, and back muscles.
Build
It’s mostly made of hard plastic, although we have seen silicone and aluminum options (like the one that came with Bob and Brad X6 Pro).
What to know
The Ekrin Bantam flat attachment has a silicone cover that you can remove for a more intense massage experience.
This fork head massage gun is also commonly included with most devices, and for a good reason.
Purpose
This attachment glides over unevenly shaped parts of the body. It’s meant to be used along the spine, muscles that run from the upper neck to the shoulders, and the Achilles tendon. It’s also used for deep-tissue massage and to alleviate sore muscles.
Build
It’s shaped like a Y. We’ve seen weird shapes, like a U. We’ve also seen some narrow and others made of soft material, like in the Ekrin Kestrel and KiCA 3.
What to know
Interestingly, though, we haven’t seen a Theragun fork attachment. What a bummer!
However, there is one option: they offer a Theragun Duo Adapter, which allows you to use two attachments simultaneously. We’re not huge fans of this, though.
Firstly, you must pay extra for the adapter (here) AND another Theragun tip (since the device only comes with one).
Secondly, its arms are quite wide (likely to accommodate two Theragun Supersoft), which might make it less effective in some situations.
This one is crucial for pinpoint treatment.
Purpose
This attachment targets trigger points, knots, and hard-to-reach muscle tissues. It’s another great option for deep tissue massages, offering precise pressure where needed.
Caution
The massage gun bullet attachment is the most intense one and may cause discomfort. Start slowly with less pressure and only increase if you feel comfortable.
Build
It’s usually made of hard plastic, like with Ekrin and Hyperice devices, or covered with silicone, as seen with Bob and Brad devices.
While it’s generally not recommended to use a massage gun directly over bones or sensitive areas, this attachment allows for gentle application.
Purpose
This one is great for massaging tender areas. It can also be used when you need a relaxing massage.
It’s particularly effective for relieving painful DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) and treating other injuries.
Build
In terms of approach, we’ve seen brands mix it up with this one. For instance, Ekrin Kestrel, Ekrin 365, and Bob and Brad D6 Pro make it like a squishy rubber.
We’ve also seen the Theragun Supersoft using a soft cushion foam material. You still need to purchase it separately (only Pro includes it), but we love its softness and definitely recommend it.
What to know
Unfortunately, not all brands include this attachment, which is a bummer.
These are the popular massage gun attachments we’ve seen with most percussion massage guns and believe are must-haves.
When it comes to the build and material for percussion massager heads, manufacturers take different approaches. You can expect some of the attachments for massage gun to be made of silicone, Eva foam, hard plastic, and more.
Before we start discussing specific body parts, let’s go over some general rules on how to use massage gun attachments:
Here’s the list summarizing which percussion massager attachments are best suited for massaging various body parts, along with the recommended Theragun massage heads and instructions on how to use them.
Fork attachment for targeting neck muscles without impacting the spine; also Ball, Flat, and any for sensitive areas
Dampener or SuperSoft
Flat or Ball heads are used for broader areas, and Fork or Bullet attachments for specific points.
Theragun wedge attachment
Ball, smaller heads like Bullet and Fork for targeting specific knots
Theragun Ball
Flat, smaller heads like Bullet and Fork for targeting specific knots
Therabody Dampener
Fork attachment to avoid direct spinal pressure
Theragun Supersoft
Ball, Round
Wedge attachment Theragun
Ball and Flat attachments for general massage, bullet head for deep tissue
Theragun Ball
Ball attachment for general massage, Bullet head for deep tissue
Theragun Ball and Dampener
To activate the muscles, move along the entire length of the hamstrings and glutes at a moderate pace for 30 seconds. Slowly move along the hamstring for 2 minutes to promote recovery and relaxation. For best results, use a lower speed with light to moderate pressure.
Massage gun flat headfor general massage. Massage gun bullet attachment head for deep tissue
Dampener attachment Theragun
Cushioned head for sensitivity; Bullet for targeting small spots; Flat head for overall relaxation
Ball, Dampener, and Theragun Cone attachment
Cushioned head for sensitivity; Bullet for targeting small spots; Flat head for overall relaxation
Standard Ball, Dampener, and Theragun Supersoft
We should also mention using any of the Theragun attachments to massage other body parts, such as the inner thighs, knees, IT bands, and more. Just use the general rules we mentioned earlier.
Other than what we have mentioned so far, these tips will go a long way in ensuring you don’t miss a step with massage gun heads:
Yes, you can use the same attachment for different body parts.
However, beware of sensitive areas and body areas where hard attachments may hurt you. Use the ball or flat attachment for an overall massage.
Yes, especially when it comes to the hard attachments, such as the bullet and cone attachments. You can’t use these on sensitive areas such as the throat or temple. Otherwise, you risk getting injured. Also, if you press the gun too hard on the same spot, you risk bruising the skin, which may later become itchy.
The best way is to listen to your body. Always start slow and increase the speed and pressure gradually. Experiment with different speeds and pressures over different parts and see how you feel.
1) With the device turned off, use your fingers to do a “V” sign.
2) Place each finger around the metallic base of the Theragun head.
3) Pull firmly away from the shaft.
4) Store the Therabody attachment.
You must know how to use massage gun attachments if you want to get the best out of your percussive therapy while treating DOMS, lower back pain, or neck muscle strains.
Remember to experiment with different massage heads, as some can provide more effective relief from muscle pain while you enjoy your percussive massage. Moderation is key.
Here's a quick rundown of all the tweaks and edits we've made to this article to keep it accurate and up-to-date!
Current version.
Published on:
•
Written by:
Greg Szostak
Disclaimers
The views and opinions expressed on this website are those of the authors. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.
All product names, logos, and brands are the property of their respective owners. All company, product, and service names used on this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, logos, and brands does not imply endorsement.
Our policy is to make every effort to respect the copyrights of outside parties. If you believe your copyright has been misused, please provide us with a message stating your position, and we will endeavor to correct any misuse immediately.
Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase the item, we may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more here.
