Foam rollers are all the rage. This self-myofascial release tool has become the go-to option for fitness and self-massage, because it relieves tension in tight muscles while enhancing muscle recovery. Whether you’re looking to incorporate foam rollers into your daily exercise routine or just need to resolve problem areas, here are some benefits that you can look forward to.
Enhanced Flexibility
One of the most popular benefits of foam rolling is its ability to relieve muscle tension and tight joints, for improved flexibility. When foam rolling is done before your workout, it allows you to perform more high-powered and in depth activities. Additionally, when done at the end of your workout, foam rolling results in enhanced recovery time.
Eliminated Toxins
Your lymphatic system controls the efficient removal of waste from your cells. When lymph flow is blocked and your system is not functioning as it should, illnesses are bound to occur. Thankfully, foam rolling stimulates your lymphatic system, eliminating toxins efficiently. Other related benefits include improved circulation of oxygen to your cells and of blood throughout your body.
Injury Prevention
When you adequately warm up before exercising, you can avoid injuring yourself. Combining foam rolling with your standard stretches will help prepare your muscles for use, preventing injuries that result from tight or overused muscles.
P.S. If your muscles are already inflamed, consult your doctor before foam rolling.
Relief from Chronic Pain
Foam rolling is often referred to as self-myofascial release, but what exactly does that mean? Well, myofascial release is defined as “a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.“
Foam rolling allows you to perform this gentle massage technique on your own tense muscles, hence the name self-myofascial release.
Cost-Savings
Massage therapy is expensive, and most of us can only afford it on an infrequent basis. Thankfully, foam rolling offers most of the benefits of massage therapy at a reduced cost (i.e. the initial cost of buying the foam roller). And best of all, you can foam roll as many times as you want, whenever you want, without denting your wallet.
From hamstring stretches to upper back relief, foam rollers are one of the most versatile and effective exercise tools available today. If you have problem areas and chronic pain that you do not want to aggravate, book your chiropractic appointment today and let us resolve your underlying issues so that you can safely work out.