The concept of percussive therapy was created by a French doctor named Jacque-Louis Reverdin in the year 1877.
He described that percussions can help to bring damaged muscles back into action and function properly (the word ‘percussion’ is taken from the Latin verb ‘percute’, which means “to strike”).
The process of this type of treatment involves performing body motions on specific muscle groups using a rhythmic, mechanical vibration.
This mechanism generates waves of different frequencies and amplitudes, which stimulate blood circulation and metabolic processes on a cellular level. The main purpose is to accelerate the maturation of collagen fibers after injuries or surgical procedures. Injuries are mainly treated through restoring strength between muscles, joints and bones.
As a result, pain and inflammation are reduced; there is also an increase in movement range and flexibility.
This type of therapy can be especially useful for athletes because it stimulates the muscles to perform better after strenuous workouts or competitions. Sports injuries may persist if not addressed properly by this form of treatment.
It’s important to note that results vary from person to person depending on age, health condition and other factors. Percussion leads to better blood flow in damaged areas, which reduces joint stiffness and helps rebuild muscle tissue more quickly.
Percussion Therapies have been used since antiquity by many cultures worldwide as part of their traditional medical procedures. Although they are usually practiced at home – there are professional studios where people interested in this form of therapy can go.
It is believed that by regularly taking part in percussions, an individual will sleep better and experience increased energy levels. There are many different types of techniques that can be used – depending on the problem area to treat.
There are two main types of percussion procedures:
Circle massages and muscle beaters. Circle massages are preferably applied against the direction of blood flow due to its greater benefits for reducing pain. This type of massage helps relieve discomfort after accidents or surgeries. It also increases joint movement by loosening adhesions between muscles which makes them more flexible.
Circle massages can be performed with hands and elbows. The main goal of this technique is to restore the normal activity of muscles and cells, as well as increase blood flow to the affected area.
Muscle beaters are used for those suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatic diseases that stiffen muscles over time. In comparison to circle massages, muscle beaters are much less painful but their effects are not as dramatic.
As a rule, the therapist should determine which method is more effective in a particular case. However, it’s important to note that if one type lacks effectiveness – a combination of both may be applied instead for greater benefits.
The most common conditions treated via percussion therapy include:
Headaches and migraines – by using this method, therapists can restore normal blood flow to the brain and strengthen bones which often leads to pain decrease. It is also considered as very effective for people who suffer from high blood pressure.
Muscular injuries – these damages may be caused by sports activities, accidents or surgeries. Percussion therapy provides a great way to repair muscles and reduce discomfort after strenuous workouts or competitions.
Stiffness and walking problems – therapies help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in joints which results in walking with less difficulty and pain.
Osteoarthritis – percussions are an effective remedy that helps deal with this type of arthritis because it reduces joint stiffness and promotes better sleep.
Cancers – such as breast cancer, if not addressed properly – the affected area may persist and lead to further damage. Percussion is a great way to reduce pain and make it easier for those dealing with tumors to move around .
