WHAT IS FOAM ROLLING (SELF-MYOFASCIAL RELEASE)?
Foam rolling is a form of self-massage that uses a roller to apply pressure to muscles and nearby soft tissue.
WHAT IT MEANS
Foam rolling can temporarily increase range of motion and may ease post-workout soreness. It is often called self-myofascial release, but that name does not prove that rolling breaks up scar tissue or permanently changes fascia, the connective tissue around muscles.
A PRACTICAL EXAMPLE
Someone may roll their thighs before moving into a comfortable warm-up and then check whether movement feels easier.
IMPORTANT LIMITS
A short-term change in flexibility does not establish that tissue has been structurally repaired.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does foam rolling replace strength or mobility training?
No. It can be an optional addition to those practices.
RELATED READING
Foam Rolling After 40 · Range of Motion (ROM)
SOURCES
Acute effects on range of motion
review of range of motion and recovery