Massage gun attachments: how to choose the right massage gun heads for your recovery

Which massage head should you use for your calves? Is a bullet head better for muscle knots? And when should you choose a soft massage head? Anyone using a massage gun for the first time quickly notices that the different attachments are more than just accessories.

Massage head	Best used for
Round head	The best all-round choice for large muscle groups such as the calves, thighs, glutes, back and shoulders.
Flat head	Large muscle areas when you want to distribute broader, even pressure.
Bullet head	Targeted pressure on specific areas that need extra attention.
Air-cushioned head	Sensitive or tired muscles, or whenever you want a gentler massage.
Fork head	Muscle groups alongside bony structures, such as the muscles next to the spine. Do not use it directly on bone.

Each attachment has a specific function and helps you treat certain muscle groups more precisely and comfortably. In this blog, we explain when to use each massage head and why, so you can get the most out of your Northwall massage gun.

Why are there different massage heads?

The shape and material of a massage head determine how the massage feels. A larger head spreads the pressure over a wider area, while a smaller head targets a specific muscle or sensitive spot. Massage heads made from softer materials absorb some of the impact and provide a more comfortable massage. Hard materials, such as wood or rigid plastic, retain their shape and deliver a more intense, targeted treatment.

The hardest massage head is therefore not always the best choice. The most suitable option depends on the muscle group you are treating and how intense you want the massage to be. Above all, choose an attachment that allows you to treat the muscle in a controlled and comfortable way.

Round head: the best choice for everyday use

The round massage head is the most versatile of all attachments and, for most people, the best place to start. Its rounded shape distributes pressure evenly, allowing you to massage large muscle groups comfortably. It also glides smoothly over the natural contours of your body.

Dealing with a small or stubborn tension point? Another attachment, such as a bullet head, is often a better choice because it lets you apply pressure more precisely.

Suitable for: calves, thighs, glutes, back and shoulders.

Bullet head: for targeted muscle knots

The bullet head is ideal when you want to address a specific muscle knot or a small tension point. Its small contact surface applies pressure very precisely, making the massage feel deeper and more intense than with a round massage head.

Use the bullet head carefully, especially the first time. Because the pressure is concentrated, the massage can quickly become too intense, particularly on sensitive areas. Never use the bullet head directly on bones, joints, tendons, the neck or the spine.

Suitable for: small tension points in larger muscles, such as the calves or glutes.

Fork head: for hard-to-reach muscle groups

The fork head is designed to massage muscles that run alongside a bone or tendon. The opening in the centre lets you direct pressure onto the surrounding muscles without massaging the bone or tendon itself.

Use the fork head, for example, on the muscles on either side of the spine. Always place the massage head on the muscles and never directly on the vertebrae. Around the Achilles tendon, massage only the surrounding muscles.

Suitable for: the calf muscles and the muscles alongside the spine.

Flat head: for a powerful massage of large muscle groups

Want to work large muscle groups more firmly? The flat head is a good choice. Its broad contact surface distributes pressure evenly, making this attachment ideal for an intensive massage of the legs, glutes and back.

For smaller or more sensitive muscle groups, a round or softer massage head is usually more comfortable.

Suitable for: thighs, hamstrings, glutes and broad back muscles.

Soft or air-cushioned head: for sensitive muscles

The soft or air-cushioned massage head is the most comfortable of all attachments. Because the material absorbs some of the vibrations, the massage feels gentler and the pressure is distributed more evenly.

This attachment is ideal for sensitive or tired muscles and for anyone using a massage gun for the first time. It also offers a comfortable alternative when another massage head feels too intense.

Always take care near bones and joints, and never massage directly on a bone or joint.

Suitable for: sensitive muscles, a light massage and relaxation.

Heated massage head: heat and massage in one 

Want to help your muscles relax even more? The heated massage head is a good choice. This attachment combines percussive massage with localised heat, which can feel pleasant on stiff or tired muscles and make the massage even more comfortable.

Do not use the heated massage head on a swollen, bruised or irritated area. Always check that the temperature feels comfortable during treatment.

Suitable for: larger muscle groups and muscles that feel stiff or tired.

Wooden massage head: for a natural massage experience

The wooden massage head adds a warm, natural touch to your massage. Unlike plastic, oak feels pleasant against the skin and provides a comfortable massage experience.

Thanks to the strong and stable properties of oak, the head is suitable for long-term use. The material's natural structure also adds to the luxurious feel during massage.

The wooden massage head is particularly well suited to larger muscle groups, such as the thighs and glutes. Always start at a low intensity and build up gradually so your body can get used to the sensation. For sensitive areas or places with little muscle tissue, choose a softer attachment.

Suitable for: large muscle groups, such as the thighs and glutes.

Which massage head should you use for each body area

Body area	Best choice	Alternative
Calves	Round head for an even massage of the entire calf muscle	Bullet head for a smaller area that needs extra attention, or a soft head for sensitive muscles
Thighs	Round or flat head for large muscle areas such as the quadriceps and thighs	Wooden head for anyone who prefers a firmer, natural massage experience
Hamstrings	Round or flat head for a broad and comfortable massage	Soft head when the muscles feel tired or more sensitive
Glutes	Round or flat head for the large gluteal muscles	Bullet head for targeted pressure on a specific area
Back	Round or soft head for a comfortable massage of the back muscles	Fork head for the muscles alongside the spine (never directly on the vertebrae)
Shoulders	Round or soft head for sensitive muscles around the neck and shoulders	Use the bullet head carefully on a specific tense area

This overview is a practical starting point. The way a massage head feels varies from person to person. Always begin on a low setting and apply very little additional pressure.

Cleaning and maintenance

Remove the massage head after use and clean it with a slightly damp cloth. Allow the attachment to dry completely before placing it back on your Northwall massage gun.

Using a heated massage head? Never immerse it in water. Clean a wooden massage head with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Also check your massage heads regularly for cracks, damage or loose parts. This keeps them safe to use and helps them last longer.

Which massage head is the best choice?

Not sure which massage head to start with? The round head is usually the safest and most versatile choice. A flat head is ideal for larger muscle groups, a soft head provides extra comfort for sensitive muscles, and a bullet head lets you target muscle knots or tension points very precisely.

Whichever massage head you use, always start at a low intensity and keep the massage gun moving continuously. Feel sharp pain, tingling or numbness? Stop the massage immediately.

With the right massage head, you can get the most out of your massage gun and treat every muscle group safely and effectively.

Explore the range of Northwall massage guns and compatible attachments so you can choose the right option for every muscle and recovery moment.

Frequently asked questions

Which massage heads are included with the Northgun PRO?

The Northgun PRO comes as standard with five massage heads: a round head, fork head, bullet head, flat head and air-cushioned head. Depending on the version, it may also include a heated massage head or an oak massage head, allowing you to target different muscle groups and recovery needs even more precisely.

Which massage heads is best for beginners?

For most users, the round massage head is the best option to start with. Its even pressure distribution makes it comfortable to use and suitable for large muscle groups such as the calves, thighs, glutes, back and shoulders.

Which massage heads should you use for sensitive muscles?

The air-cushioned massage head is ideal for sensitive or tired muscles. Because the soft material absorbs some of the vibrations, the massage feels less intense. It is also a comfortable choice for first-time massage gun users.

Do the heated and wooden massage heads fit the Northgun PRO and Prime?

Yes. Both the infrared heated massage head and the oak massage head are compatible with the Northgun PRO and Northgun Prime. This makes it easy to expand your massage gun with extra attachments that suit your preferences and recovery routine.

Is a hard massage head better than a soft massage head?

No. The best massage head depends on the muscle group and the intensity you are looking for. A hard massage head provides a firmer, more targeted massage, while a soft massage head is more comfortable for sensitive or tired muscles. Always choose an attachment that lets you massage without pain.

How long should you use a massage gun on one muscle?

Start with around 30 seconds per muscle and keep the massage gun moving continuously. For larger muscle groups, you can gradually increase the treatment time to around two minutes. Feel sharp pain, tingling or numbness? Stop the massage immediately.