Before I tell you the benefits of a foam roller I should probably explain what a foam roller is for those of you who have no idea what I am talking about. A foam roller is exactly what it sounds like- a roller made out foam. Some pain can be alleviated by laying a part of the body (usually the legs) on top of the foam roller and allowing the body weight to gently add pressure and roll up and down or side to side. It's the same principle as a self massage. Rolling the muscles will make then more pliable and stretch them better than any massage can. It may be uncomfortable in the beginning but over time the the muscles will begin to release more and more. It takes very little time but it does require a lot of consistency. Eventually there will be less over all tension in the muscles if you continue to use the roller. Releasing tension in the muscles reduces scar tissue and in certain situations can help rid you of back pain, knee pain and much more. There are many places you can purchase a foam roller. I get mine from www.performbetter.com. Some local sporting goods stores and physical therapy offices offer the foam rollers for sale. If you have been living with pain and it's not a joint, bone, disk, connective tissue,etc...issue, the foam roller just might help you. It is my opinion the foam roller should be a part of everyone's exercise program. Just a few minutes four or five times a week will increase flexibility and decrease tension in the muscles leading to a better quality of life.
Source:
Fitlink.com
Randy-
ReplyDeleteI have consistent muscle pain on and along my left shoulder blade. It is definately muscular. Would this be beneficial for me or is it just for legs, lower back etc.? Thanks!
xoxoxo
Amy Ballard
I first came across these after taking a fall down a mountain during training in the Army. My physical therapist had me doing this to help with the pain from muscle tightness/soreness in my lower and upper back. It helped to relax/ and work knots out of my muscles along with stretching my back a little bit. As Randy said and my physical therapist said it also works to reduce scar tissue, mine coming from the fall and constant PT of the army. From my personal use I felt that it helped out and my back, lower and upper, felt better after each use and seemed to help my recovery process along.
ReplyDeleteI use a foam roller for shoulder pain and i also use it for core exercises. Sometimes it just feels good to lay on it and let it stretch your back and shoulders. It's definitely multiple-functional! Thanks for the great article!
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