Foam Roller Compared to Massage on Reducing Calf Muscle Tone in Healthy Subjects

Effect of Foam Roller Compared to Massage on Reducing Calf Muscle Tone in Healthy Subject

Objective: This study aims to compare the effects of two techniques-foam rolling (FR) and therapeutic massage-on reducing the muscle tone in the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) of healthy individuals.

Methods: A randomized, controlled crossover design was used with 40 healthy participants (aged 18-45). Participants were randomly assigned to either a foam roller or a therapeutic massage group. The interventions were applied to the dominant leg, and muscle tone was measured pre- and post-intervention using a MyotonPro device. The primary outcome was muscle tone (Hz), and secondary outcomes included muscle stiffness (N/m) and elasticity (D [log]).

Results: The study will assess the effectiveness of each intervention on muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity. It aims to determine whether foam rolling is as effective or superior to traditional massage in reducing calf muscle tone.

Conclusion: This research will contribute to understanding the efficacy of foam rolling as a self-administered technique for muscle tone reduction and its potential application in clinical and athletic settings

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age: Participants aged between 18 and 45 years.
2. Health Status: Healthy individuals with no prior musculoskeletal conditions in the lower limbs.
3. Pain-Free: Participants should not have had pain in the gastrocnemius or Achilles tendon in the last 3 months.
4. Willingness: Participants must provide informed consent and be available for the intervention and necessary evaluations.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Musculoskeletal Conditions: Individuals with any pathologies in the calf muscles (gastrocnemius, soleus) or Achilles tendon.
2. Vascular or Neurological Issues: Participants with vascular diseases or neurological disorders that may interfere with the interventions or muscle response.
3. Skin Conditions: Exclusion of participants with skin alterations, infections, or open wounds in the area of intervention.
4. Pregnancy: Women who are pregnant.
5. Sensitivity Issues: Participants with altered sensitivity in the lower limbs or any condition that may affect the response to the techniques.
6. Non-Compliance: Individuals who do not provide informed consent or are not available for the required evaluations.