Why You Should Foam Roll

Why Should You Use a Foam Roller?

This is one of the many questions we get asked during our rehab time with patients. Many people do not know what a foam roller is and how it will even help them. They think it is just another one of our torture devices we use on people.

Self-myofascial release is a fancy term for self-massage to release muscle tightness or trigger points. This is something you can do at home without having to come into the office. This method can be performed with a foam roller, lacrosse ball, Theracane, or your own hands. By applying pressure to specific points on your body you are able to aid in the recovery of muscles and assist in returning them to normal function. Normal function means your muscles are elastic, healthy, and ready to perform at a moment’s notice.

This can have a wide range of benefits for the everyday gym-goer or someone who who works out at home. Benefits of using the foam roller will be increased blood flow throughout the body, better movement and increased range of motion. These benefits can decrease the chance of injury and decrease recovery time after a workout. A decreased recovery time means more training sessions per week/month and results can come quicker. Increased circulation is huge for recovery and to improve greater range of motion.

This can be done before or after a workout is performed. In the beginning the areas you use the foam roller will have some discomfort but the more you work on it the muscles will loosen up and your body will get used to it. There is no wrong way to use the foam roller except if you are using improper form. So if you are not sure don’t be afraid to ask because we would rather have you ask us questions then go home and aggravate the muscle.  Important areas to foam roll are all of them!!! From your calves to your middle back then foam roller can be used to work out those knots.  Here are some ways to use a foam roller.

So the next time you see a foam roller don’t be afraid of it!! Embrace it and it will be your new best friend!!