Selective Effect of Foam Rolling and Manual Massage

Effects of Self-myofascial Release and Manual Massage on Psychometric, Behavioural and Neurophysiological Indexes of Performance and Well-being: a Randomized Control Trial

The present double-blinded randomized controlled design aims at comparing the effects of a full-body manual massage and foam rolling intervention. Sixty-five healthy individuals were randomly allocated to foam rolling, manual massage or a control intervention consisting in an autogenic relaxation routine.

Self-report ratings of perceived anxiety, muscle pain and relaxation were the psychometric outcome variables. Sit-and-reach, toes-touch and mental calculation performances were the behavioral variables. Resting-state alpha and beta power recorded using electroencephalography and galvanic skin resistance measures were the neurophysiological outcome variables.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Regular practice of foam rolling (10 min routines, 2-3 times per week over the past 6 months)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic medical conditions including functional limitations that might affect proprioception and/or pain perception