Resident student Colin McGowan, SPT, discusses the current evidence and techniques with foam rolling. Enjoy!
The current literature measuring the effects of foam rolling for self-myofascial release or SMR is still emerging. Analyzing the most current research suggests that foam rolling may be an effective intervention for enhancing joint ROM at the hip, knee, ankle and pre and post exercise muscle performance.1 Both of these benefits come without the risk of negatively affecting muscle performance. Again, looking at the research, it’s suggested that SMR with a foam roll be used for thirty seconds to one minute and to perform 2-5 sets/sessions.1 Talk to a therapist today at Capital Area Physical Therapy and Wellness and ask how you can effectively and safely foam roll!
Cheatham SW, Kolber MJ, Cain M, Lee M. THE EFFECTS OF SELF‐MYOFASCIAL RELEASE USING A FOAM ROLL OR ROLLER MASSAGER ON JOINT RANGE OF MOTION, MUSCLE RECOVERY, AND PERFORMANCE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 2015;10(6):827-838.
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