What is a foam roller?
A foam roller is a massage equipment that allows you to release your own muscles. The roller is in a cylindrical shape and covered in foam. To use the product, you will often need to move your body weight over the foam roller to achieve a deep tissue massage. There are many foam rollers in the market and it can vary in size and firmness. Foam rollers have become a popular tool over the years in the fitness and health industry. In this blog we will explore how to select a foam roller and the benefits of using a foam roller.
Why use a foam roller?
There are many benefits of using a foam roller as a self-treatment technique to release muscular tension. The benefits can include:
- Eases muscular pain and aches
- Improves range of motion
- Improves athletic performance
- Reduces muscular fatigue from a heavy workout
- Reduces joint stiffness
How to find a foam roller that suits you?
There are many different types of foam rollers in the market and it can be difficult for you to find the a suitable foam roller for your musculoskeletal issue. Foam rollers that are too soft can provide inadequate pressure to the muscles whereas foam rollers that overly firm can lead to bruises and increase muscular pain. Beginners should start with a softer foam roller because their muscles are not used to this technique. Beginners should avoid the spikey or textured foam roller and go for a smoother foam roller to alleviate muscular soreness. A simple way to assess the firmness of the foam roller is to squeeze the foam roller to see how much density there is in the foam. There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to foam roller, if you would like to cover a larger surface area then you should consider getting a larger foam roller. However, the larger the size can make it difficult for you to travel with the foam roller.
How can physiotherapy help?
Do you have a foam roller? Do you want to learn how to release your own muscles? Book an appointment today with a friendly Myphysio physiotherapists. They will be able to teach you how to effectively release your own muscles. However, sometimes when symptoms do not improve or the muscular tension is recurrent then there is mostly likely an underlying musculoskeletal issue that is preventing you from achieving recovery. This is where a physiotherapists can help you. Our physiotherapists will take a comprehensive subjective history to determine if there are any factors that could be contributing to your condition. We will provide you with strategies to modify that activity to help facilitate recovery. Our expert physiotherapist will use a combination of hands-on technique and rehabilitation exercises to help you get back on track to enjoying life. You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook for physiotherapy tips.
In the month of September 2023, Myphysio is offering 50% off initial consultation for new patients with musculoskeletal pain. Mention BLOG50 at checkout to receive your discount and get your rehabilitation journey started with an experienced Myphysio physiotherapist.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care professional. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your health care provider.