The use of foam rollers as part of exercise routines and rehabilitation has increased dramatically over the last 20 years. What was once a simple cylindrical roll tucked in the corners of training rooms across the country is now in every gym and rehabilitation facility, as well as in millions of homes across the country. The medium-density, cheap, white roller that once cost about $10 has morphed into colorful, fashionable rollers in extra soft, dense or bumpy varieties. Now that they are considered a “must-have” for so many exercise enthusiasts, cost can be upwards of $60 in some instances.

The purpose of foam rollers is variable. They can be used for a core balance challenge, stretching, and obviously “rolling” soft tissues and muscles. It has become quite a trend to use these rollers in rehab and for those looking for something new in exercise.

In the rehab world, foam rollers really can and do serve a valuable role, especially for certain individuals and injuries. Understand, though, that they are not right for everyone and all injuries.

To begin with, soft tissue or muscle injuries can respond well to foam rolling. This does not mean it is for everyone, as the ability to get into a variety of positions is necessary to use the rollers. Individuals do need to be careful to stay in the soft tissue or muscles as rolling over bony prominences will hurt. It is not advisable to foam roll acute injuries. After a few days when the tissues begin to heal, foam rolling can be appropriate. For more specific questions or guidance it is always wise to consult a licensed health professional.

For those individuals looking for new stretches or even ways to mobilize (move) the spine, foam rollers are awesome tools. For certain individuals who need spinal mobility, physical therapists may integrate the use of foam rollers as a way to “take home” the benefits of a rehabilitation professional stretching (moving) the spine for them. The rollers are not as specific but do an adequate job to justify the small investment.

Additionally, by positioning the body just so on the foam roller can enhance the benefit of some stretches for the individual. This is especially true for those people who may have slightly more flexibility and need that extra lever provided by the roller to get the desired stretch.

Finally, core balance challenges are a benefit of foam rollers in rehabilitation. For the client who is advancing in their core strength progression and needs an additional challenge, foam rollers can serve the person well. There are numerous challenges that can be done that will assist the person in improving their balance and coordination via their core muscles. Again, this will require the ability to assume the necessary position on the roller on the floor.

Foam rollers are not for everyone, but they do serve a valuable role for rehabilitation professional with their clients. They are great tools that translate well from the clinic to the home to help generate the carry-over benefits ultimately desired. There are a few relatively reasonably- priced pieces of exercise equipment that are must-haves when thinking about rehabilitating injuries and foam rollers are certainly one of them.   

Dr. Andrew Zang is board certified in orthopedics and a fellowship-trained physical therapist. He is the owner of Zang Physical Therapy, located at 3514 Trindle Road, in Camp Hill. For more information, call 717-440-6197.