An instrument for applying vibrations to the human body is disclosed, comprising a housing in which an axially movable ram is arranged at the distal end, and a drive device for the ram, for setting the ram in a reciprocating motion, wherein the drive device comprises an axially movable projectile arranged proximally of the ram and an accelerating device for the projectile for accelerating the projectile distally in the direction of the ram, the ram being able to execute a stroke of at least 1 mm.