Abstract
Introduction: Percussive massage devices (PMDs) are popular interventions used by health care professionals, fitness professionals, and consumers. Of particular interest is the consumer safety of these devices. To date, no critically appraised topics have investigated consumer safety risks. Professionals may play an important role in educating consumers regarding the proper use of these devices. There is a need to appraise the current literature to determine consumer safety risks when using these devices and if adverse injuries have been documented. This information may provide vital data for developing consumer safety education strategies for health care and fitness professionals. Focused Question: Are there safety risks when consumers use PMDs? Summary of Findings: A computerized database search was completed in February 2025. Study inclusions were level 4 evidence or higher, peer-reviewed English-language publications after 2020, and clinical studies or case studies documenting posttreatment adverse injuries. Studies were excluded if they did not meet the inclusions. Five studies met the inclusions, which were case studies (level 4) that documented adverse events from improper consumer use of the devices. Documented adverse injuries included rhabdomyolysis, rectus abdominis sheath hematoma and obstructive uropathy, vertebral artery dissection, and 2 eye injuries. Practical Bottom Line: There is weak (level 4) evidence that has documented safety risks and adverse injuries related to improper use of PMDs by consumers. To date, higher-level studies have not been conducted. There appears to be a growing lack of consumer safety awareness for these devices that could lead to adverse injuries if improperly used. These findings are a starting point for future research on developing evidence-based consumer safety education strategies for PMDs. Strength of Recommendation: The findings of this analysis suggest a strength of recommendation grade of C, suggesting consumer safety risks when using PMDs and the need for improved education.
