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Looking for feedback on Massagers such as The Thumper, Jeanie-rub or medi-rub

Hi,
I'm thinking of purchasing a massage machine- most likely the thumper- but I've never experienced one myself. I'm looking for any feedback you can give me. Does anyone in Connecticut use one? I work on a lot of large male hardbodies and it would help to have something to warm things up before I use my hands.

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Permalink Reply by Peter Lelean on March 11, 2010 at 5:10am

Hi David. For what its worth, I used to use a standard homedics unit until it broke. Then I tried a mini thumper and was hooked. I think its more versatile than the big one. Every client every day . . gets through necessary muscle tension and saves my energy. Used judiciously, allows you to cover much more ground which is useful if you're a "structural mechanic". I also use two different activators, a niagara hand unit, thai sticks, electronic acupuncture and a modified chopstick (for connective tissue massage a la Ebner) . . .Just get one! Cheers p

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Permalink Reply by Robin Byler Thomas on March 11, 2010 at 9:23am

Hi David,

I used both the big thumper and the mini on my clients for a month or so; I'd borrowed it from a friend. My clients thought it was "fun" for a while but were basically unimpressed. I've found it to be the same way with e-stem, hot packs, and ultrasound, when working in a PT clinic. These tools were all right initially and then folks just wanted hands on the entire session.

A heating pad, or hot stones, have actually been more effective when necessary, and are much more cost-effective.

Good luck.

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Permalink Reply by Robin Byler Thomas on March 12, 2010 at 6:06pm

Here's another thought David. Have you considered Trager Work or table Thai Massage? I've found these two modalities excellant for my sports massage sessions. Trager Work is essentially rocking for muscle release and I've found Thai really great for the feet and legs of bikers, runners, and hikers. Thai elongates and stretches as well as twists, compresses, and does specific point work.