Stretching and exercise are two common recipes for people with spondylolisthesis. An exercise technique or practice that you may not be familiar with can also help you achieve relief. This often overlooked technique is called rolling foam.
WHAT IS ROLLING FOAM?
Foam rolling is the practice of using a piece of condensed foam as a tool to massage overused tissues. Simply put, the foam roller is a poor man’s massage.
The use of foam rollers is becoming a common practice in therapy clinics and with athletes of all sports. It is a great way to help reduce the amount of inflammation and irritation of damaged or overused soft tissues.
To use a foam roller, simply place the foam in an area of tension or pain and use your body weight to intensify the process. You want to focus on spreading tissue or muscle in a specific area, not bones or joints. Wheels forward and backward to apply pressure to soft tissue.
You can buy a foam roller at almost any sporting goods store or department store. Foam rollers range from soft to very hard composition. Hard, more condensed foam provides the most pressure, while soft foam is less intense.
WHY YOU SHOULD USE A FOAM ROLL.
The foam roller has several benefits, but for those who suffer from back pain and specifically spondylolisthesis, it can offer much-needed relief. Let’s look at some of the most important benefits.
- Improves range of motion. – With regular use of a foam roller, areas of knotted and overused fabric will enhance and create a sense of improved movement. Once these knots are released, the area is no longer restricted and will be able to go through a natural range of motion.
- Increase blood flow – The actual foam rolling process can increase blood flow to the area. This is very helpful in helping with recovery and preparing the body for activity.
- It helps to reduce stress. – The stress of being sore or uncomfortable can be overwhelming at times. The foam roller provides a sensation similar to a good massage that releases tension.
- It works – The foam roller is becoming fashionable because it works. People feel the difference and it can give you an immediate sense of relief.
HOHOW DOES IT WORK?
As you go through repetitive movements like sitting, working in certain positions, and even repetitive sports like golf and baseball, certain areas become overused and tiring.
Spondylolisthesis sufferers often develop stiffness and restrictions in some common areas due to overuse and compensation.
These areas develop blockages in the tissues in that area. These obstructions cause a feeling of tightness and if left unattended they can affect the surrounding areas. The foam roller will help release the fabrics and return them to their normal length.
A WORD OF CAUTION
The first time you try to roll with foam it can be uncomfortable. These overused areas can feel very sensitive, but as your body adjusts and recovery begins, you won’t want to put the roller down.
Rolling itself is not the answer to all your pain. Foam rolling combined with a therapy program that includes proper spondylolisthesis and stretching exercises can give you much-needed relief.