Many people enjoy fitness in daily life because it enhances physical strength, sculpts the body, and reduces the likelihood of illness. However, caution is essential when exercising—never engage recklessly. Particular care is needed when using fitness equipment, as carelessness can lead to discomfort. Reports indicate that Mr. Zhang from Wuhan experienced dizziness and unsteady walking after using a massage gun to relax his muscles. What happened?
Using a Fascia Gun for Muscle Relaxation Left Him Dizzy:
Mr. Zhang, a Wuhan resident, works long hours in front of a computer and recently faced overtime, leading to stiff, painful neck muscles and occasional arm numbness. His fitness-enthusiast son purchased a fascia gun online to help relax his father's neck and shoulder muscles. After using it for several days, however, Mr. Zhang experienced dizziness and unsteady walking.
Doctors explained that the powerful vibrations from the fascia gun can dislodge otoliths (ear stones) from their normal position, causing them to roll into the semicircular canals. When the head moves, these displaced otoliths disrupt the normal flow of lymph fluid in the canals, triggering vertigo. This condition requires treatment on a vertigo therapy device to reposition the otoliths.
Doctors advise caution when using fascia guns. They should be applied along the natural grain of muscles and fascia, not solely targeting sore spots. Areas with dense nerve and blood vessel networks—such as the head, neck, and spine—should be avoided.
This underscores the importance of proper fitness equipment usage. Many consumers impulsively purchase trending products based on influencer endorsements. To achieve health benefits through exercise, ensure equipment is used correctly—never experiment recklessly. Improper use risks discomfort and potential harm.
How to relax neck and shoulder muscles?
When you feel stiffness in your neck and shoulders and want to relax, try these exercises:
1. Interlace your fingers behind your neck. Gently tilt your head left and right, or backward, while resisting with your hands to keep your head still. Though your head remains stationary, the opposing forces help stretch the neck muscles.
2. Extend both arms backward with fingers interlocked, then rotate your shoulders in wide circles. Alternatively, interlock your fingers and extend arms forward, then raise them overhead and straighten them, moving left and right several times. This effectively relaxes shoulder and neck muscles.
What should you pay attention to when using fitness equipment?
1. Inspect the equipment
Before using any fitness apparatus, carefully examine it for any signs of looseness, breakage, deterioration, or damage. Only proceed with your workout after confirming there are no safety hazards. This prevents accidents or injuries caused by faulty equipment during your exercise routine.
2. Understand the equipment
Different machines have distinct usage methods and target different user groups. Before selecting equipment, assess your physical condition and capacity. Choose appropriate machines based on your abilities. Improper selection—such as using equipment beyond your strength—can easily lead to accidents during exercise, including muscle strains.
Additionally, remember to control the range of motion during core exercises based on your ability. Excessive twisting can easily strain your lower back. Also, individuals with weak constitutions, children, and the elderly should always have supervision when using equipment. Never allow them to use it alone, as timely assistance may not be available in case of accidents.