Foam Rolling For Physiotherapy

What is a Foam Roller For Physiotherapy And How Does it Help?

Also known as self –myofascial release. This technique is used by physiotherapists, athletes, coaches to self-massage trigger points (knots) and muscle tightness. The foam roller is applied to pressure points to help lengthen and smoothen your muscles.

It also aids in breaking up scar tissues and adhesions, improves performance, function, muscle balance and reduces injuries. Foam rolling helps recover muscles and helps you return to normal function, with healthy and elastic muscles. Furthermore, foam rolling increases blood circulation which in turn boots workout performance.

How to Use a Physiotherapy Foam Roller?

Finding triggers points can be done through self-exploration.

Once you find a sore/tight spot, pause, roll and hold it there for 15-30 seconds.

• You should apply moderate pressure to the specific muscle area you wish to work.
• Try to relax and breathe as much as possible.

You may feel pain and discomfort, similar to how you feel when you are stretching. This pain should not feel unbearable and you only need 5-10 minutes to acquire the benefit.

As you start feeling your muscles relaxing, the pain and discomfort should slowly go away. You should feel much better after.

• For painful areas do not apply pressure directly on it, you can work the surrounding muscles. It is ideal to foam roll after an intense work-out. It is important to avoid rolling your low back, bones, and joints.

Use other objects such as a tennis ball to work those areas.

• Lastly, do not force yourself to soreness, take a break, stay hydrated, sleep and give it a day or two before focusing on the same area again.

There Are Types of Physiotherapy Foam Rollers

They cost anywhere from 20-80 dollars, vary in density and length.

More pressure can be applied with denser foams and they typically are more expensive. ]

The shorter foam rollers are 18” and they full-length rollers are about 36”.

Visit one of our many physiotherapy clinics and speak to a trained professional who can answer your questions. Find our locations here.