How do I use the Equine Therapy Systems® Ultra Massage Gun?
- Before you use it, fully charge it for at least 6 hours. It can be charged at any time and at any level thereafter.
- Avoid completely draining the battery to ensure the longevity of the battery.
- Turn it on by pushing the on/off button for 2 seconds. The massage gun will be in standby mode and the screen displays '00'.
- To turn it up to level 1, push the on/off button again (and again for level 2 etc). Level 7 to 10 should only be used once you and your horse are completely comfortable with the massage gun. For most horses, levels 1 to 6 are more than adequate.
- To turn the massage gun off, hold in the on/off button for 2 seconds
- To change the massage head, simply pull of the existing head and push on the new option of your choice.
- To charge the massage gun, plug the cable into the massage gun and plug into the power mains. The indicator lights will be flashing blue when charging - when they stop flashing it is fully charged. When there is a red light on, it means the gun needs to be charged.
- The battery life between charges depends on the speed level and applied pressure during use. On average it lasts about 2 hours.
- Do not use the massage gun whilst charging.
How to massage:
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Start by using the Equine Therapy Systems® Ultra massage gun on yourself. Turn it on and then gently place it on a muscle, moving it slowly up and down. Get a feel for the differences in the settings and the pressure required to feel muscle relief.
- Start on the lowest speed.
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Rest the massage gun on your body. Don’t add any pressure. Just let it float.
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Glide the Equine Therapy Systems massage gun along the muscle. Move slowly—about an inch a second or slower.
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If you hit a knot or an area of tension, let the massage gun rest on that spot—without adding additional pressure—for a few moments before moving on.
- Now you are ready to use it on your horse! Let you horse see, sniff and feel it when it is turned off.
- Turn it on and start very gradually as you did with your own massage in the steps above.
- If you have a sensitive horse that does not enjoy being clipped and takes a while to get used to new experiences, take it slowly. Only do it for a few seconds at a time and gauge your horses reaction. Allow them to get used to it, so that they can enjoy the sensation, slowly and gradually.
- Most horses take it it very quickly and you can get stuck in. Move up and down each each area slowly until all the relevant muscle groups are done.
- Don't massage any muscle group for longer than 2 minutes.
- Avoid holding the massage gun in a static position for more than a few seconds, and to move it around in a small radius in one area instead before you move to the next area.
- No matter what, the massage gun should never cause pain. If it appears to be painful or your horse is not enjoying it, stop right away.
- Watch your horse's body language and be guided by them. Note, however that they may appear to have their ears back but might be listening to the sound of the massage gun behind them. Look for other clues and signs. Less is definitely more when you are starting out.
- The massage gun is meant to be used on muscles, rather than nerves, bones, joints or tendons.
- While it may seem obvious, avoid using the massage gun on any scabs, wounds, lesions, sores or abrasions.
- Consult with your vet if any specific symptoms persist or worsen.
- This gun is not suitable for children to use.
Click here to purchase or learn more about the Equine Therapy Systems® Ultra massage gun.
How to use each Equine Therapy Systems® massage head:
- The Large Ball and Double Ball Head - The most commonly used massage gun attachments. Designed to treat both large and medium group muscles, it’s overall the most versatile.
- The Flat Head- A great multipurpose attachment. The flat head is able to provide a more dense massage over the large ball. Because it doesn’t have any sharp edges, it won’t hurt quite if you happen to run over bones while massaging.
- The Bullet- Best used on trigger points or knots. This massage gun attachment is great to really focus in on one particular spot on the body for deeper impact.
- The Fork Head- The dual-pronged head allows you to target specific areas.
- The Crescent Head: Suitable for any big muscle group that has been subject to high intensity training eg shoulders, neck and hind quarters
The Equine Therapy Systems® Ultra massage gun can be safely used on people too! Please follow the following guidelines:
1. Do not use if you have any blood disorders or are using blood thinners
2. Do not use if you have a pacemaker or at risk of a heart attack
3. Do not use if you are pregnant
4. Do not use on sensitive bony areas like your shins, back of your ankles, back or your hand etc. Do not use over the front part of your neck and throat.
5. Stop if you feel pain.
6. Use common sense, but if in any doubt consult your doctor first.