Get Rolling (Foam Rolling, That Is)!
By Donna Stark
We are all about optimal health and wellness at The Joint Chiropractic, and we take great pleasure in educating our patients on how to achieve that. From the benefits of chiropractic care to the positive results that can come from a healthy diet and daily exercise, we could sit for days and days explaining why a healthy lifestyle is so important. But you already know about those things, don't you? So, let's talk about a different activity that is not only easy to do, but could seriously improve your life. Want to know what it is? Well, have you heard about foam rolling yet?
What Is Foam Rolling?
If you suffer from tight muscles and stiff joints, are getting bored with your daily stretch routine, or sit at a desk all day for work, it may be time to consider incorporating foam rolling into your fitness routine. Foam rolling is the act of using cylinders of dense foam to release tension, restore muscle function, increase range of motion, improve blood flow, and enhance athletic performance. Most gyms or fitness clubs will have them on hand, but if you want your own, you can easily find them online.
Steps to Take
Just as you would with any new tool, it's important to follow the appropriate steps when using your foam rollers because you could hurt yourself if you aren't careful. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while using these on your body.
- Get the green light to proceed from your healthcare provider
- Figure out which part of the body you want to focus on while avoiding your joints and lower back
- Sit or lie down with that area on top of the roller
- With slow, deliberate motions, roll back and forth while applying light pressure
- Increase the pressure slowly and only when your body is ready for it
- Stop if you experience any numbness, tingling, or pain
Get Rolling!
Foam rolling can be an effective way to ease tension, alleviate pain, improve range of motion, and reduce the risk of injury, so why don't you give it a try? Give your overall health and fitness a boost by adding it to your daily stretching and exercise routines. It's fairly easy to do, but if you have any questions on how to start, just ask for help! The physical trainers at your gym and your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic are filled with information and are eager to share what they know with you!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arvada, Colo.