“Should I try foam rolling?” In the past couple of years, lots of people have asked themselves and their doctors this very question. Depending upon whether or not the practice was appropriate for them health-wise, many individuals received a positive answer.
It’s not at all uncommon for a healthcare practitioner to recommend foam rolling to his or her patients. Physiotherapists, in particular, tend to praise foam rolling.
4 Reasons Physiotherapists Love Foam Rolling
The benefits of foam rolling are lengthy. We will mention only four incredible advantages of this self-administered therapy. These benefits are reasons why most physiotherapists are fans of foam rolling:
1. Foam rolling reduces gym-related injuries – Physiotherapists appreciate the way foam rolling reduces the risk of gym-related injuries. Brynne Elliot, MSC, wrote, “(Foam rolling) can have a wide range of benefits for the everyday gym-goer. Some of the basic, most obvious benefits will be increased blood flow throughout the body, better movement, and increased range of motion. These benefits can decrease the chance of injury and decrease recovery time after a workout.”
2. Foam rolling keeps muscles from getting too stiff and thus reduces pain – What are the results of sitting at a desk all day, playing sports, or simply living daily life? One answer is “stiff muscles.” Some people find they can relax their muscles with a foam roller. “When used regularly, (a foam roller is an) efficient tool that can be used to break down scar tissue and adhesions, keeping your body functional for your athletic endeavors or just taking the stiffness out of muscles from sitting in an office chair all day,” wrote James Fell. Best of all, relaxed muscles equal less or no pain. This is a benefit both physiotherapists and patients adore.
3. Foam rolling is super cheap – Foam rolling isn’t just cheap; it can be dirt cheap. Some foam rollers only cost a few dollars. Once you purchase a foam roller, using it is free. Physiotherapists get excited that this type of therapy isn’t financially limiting for anyone.
4. Foam rolling is easy and accessible – If a therapy isn’t easy or accessible, the average person won’t participate in it. Physiotherapists are well aware of this. They know that foam rolling is accessible (it can be done in one’s home) and easy (it can be done while watching TV, etc.). Its accessibility and simplicity make foam rolling the ideal therapy for busy people who want to prevent injuries and reduce muscle aches.
Physiotherapists’ knowledge of human anatomy, pain-relieving therapies, and a sea of other illnesses and cures is extensive. That stated, a physiotherapist is a professional you can trust with your health. If you are in serious pain or experience chronic pain, it may be beneficial to visit a physiotherapist. At your first appointment, don’t forget to ask any questions you may have about foam rolling.
Now you know why physiotherapists love foam rolling. What do you like most about it?