Foam rolling is a self-myofascial release technique that uses a foam roller to massage and apply pressure to different areas of your body. It has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its numerous benefits, including improved flexibility, increased blood flow, and reduced muscle soreness.
Foam rolling can be used in a variety of ways to target different parts of your body. Here are some examples:
- Back: Lie on your back with the foam roller under your shoulder blades. Slowly roll up and down your back, focusing on any areas of tension.
- Legs: Sit on the floor with the foam roller under your calves. Roll up and down your calves, then move to your thighs.
- Hips: Lie on your side with the foam roller under your hip. Roll back and forth, focusing on any tight spots.
- Shoulders: Lie on your side with the foam roller under your armpit. Roll back and forth, focusing on any areas of tension.
- IT Band: Lie on your side with the foam roller under your hip. Roll down the outside of your thigh, from your hip to your knee.
Foam rolling can be done before or after exercise, or even on its own as part of your regular self-care routine. If you have any questions about foam rolling or want to get more use out of your foam roller, you can ask one of our clinicians what they would recommend!