08/07/2022
WHAT FOAM ROLLING ACTUALLY DOES
We aren't really "releasing" anything. In fact it takes about 2000 pounds of force to stretch and deform fascia. So that little roller is not going to lengthen and loosen it.🙅 Likewise, we can't break up fascial adhesions. Not by hand, tool, or PVC pipe. We just can't generate enough force.
So foam rolling does not create physical change in your tissues. Then what does it do?😕
It works by altering the input to your nervous system. When you roll over your muscles, you send an âš¡input to your brain that then sends a signal back to give a temporary relaxation. It also dampens pain signals temporarily which is why you feel better for a little bit afterwards.
This has a few implications for us.
🔹You don't have to destroy your muscles. Provide just enough input to get an effect.
🔹You don't need to roll for an hour. 30 seconds to a minute is enough.
🔹Since we aren't making physical change, rolling isn't going to prevent injury. It just helps reduce the perception of tightness.
🔹This is all temporary. If you don't fix the underlying cause as to why you feel tight, nothing will change.
So use the roller for what it is. It can be a great tool to make you more comfortable while you work on the real issues. Tomorrow we dive into movement and start making some real long term change.
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www.healthy-street.co.uk
