6533b7d2fe1ef96bd125f609

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Effects of self-myofascial release: A systematic review.

Chris BeardsleyJakob ŠKarabot

subject

Complementary and Manual Therapymyalgiamedicine.medical_specialtyPopulationPhysical Therapy Sports Therapy and RehabilitationAthletic PerformanceAutonomic Nervous SystemPhysical medicine and rehabilitationVascular StiffnessDelayed onset muscle sorenessmedicineHumanseducationMuscle SkeletalTherapy Soft TissueRandomized Controlled Trials as Topiceducation.field_of_studybiologyAthletesbusiness.industryRehabilitationFlexibility (personality)Myalgiabiology.organism_classificationMyofascial releaseBiomechanical PhenomenaAutonomic nervous systemComplementary and alternative medicinePhysical therapyFoam rollingEndothelium Vascularmedicine.symptombusiness

description

Summary Background Self-myofascial release (SMFR) is a type of myofascial release performed by the individual themselves rather than by a clinician, typically using a tool. Objectives To review the literature regarding studies exploring acute and chronic clinical effects of SMFR. Methods PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched during February 2015 for studies containing words related to the topic of SMFR. Results Acutely, SMFR seems to increase flexibility and reduce muscle soreness but does not impede athletic performance. It may lead to improved arterial function, improved vascular endothelial function, and increased parasympathetic nervous system activity acutely, which could be useful in recovery. There is conflicting evidence whether SMFR can improve flexibility long-term. Conclusion SMFR appears to have a range of potentially valuable effects for both athletes and the general population, including increasing flexibility and enhancing recovery.

10.1016/j.jbmt.2015.08.007https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26592233