The benefits of foam rolling have to do with the mobility of the fascia. Fascia is a fibrous layer of connective tissue that surrounds all of the muscles in our body. Without proper mobility, fibers of the fascia become cross linked and they bind to muscles and nerves, inhibiting normal motion and causing pain. Self-myofascial release is often called the “poor man’s massage.” Myofascial release is a hands-on technique that therapists have been using for years. To achieve this release, a therapist would apply a low load, long duration dragging force across layers of soft-tissue in the body. After a period of time, through some different mechanisms in the body, the body will “release” the tissue and mobility between those sliding surfaces is restored. To make these changes on oneself, a foam roller can be used in conjunction with therapist’s hands and it serves as a great additive to a treatment plan.
In our office, along with focused stretches, and mobility exercises, along with strengthening of the core and posterior chain, a simple at home additive will be either a tennis ball or foam roller that will help assist in maintaining your adjustments and minimising pain due to your daily activities of work and play. See the following link with foam rolling idea and technques. Foam Roller with instructions per body part
For more information, please discuss the benifits and techniques of foam rolling with Dr Bradley Frick, Naples Chiropractor.
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