Effects of the use of foam rollers by high-performance athletes on range of motion, flexibility, strength and delayed onset muscle soreness

Abstract

[EN] ntroduction: The Foam Roller (FR) is a self-induced myofascial release instrument to apply pressure directly on the target musculature. FR is widely used by athletes as a self-massage tool. Objective: We evaluate the current evidence on the impact of FR on the musculoskeletal system in athletes, trying to identify the mechanisms that influence myofascial tissues. Material and method: Based on the Preferred Reporting Item Guidelines for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), we systematically reviewed studies indexed in Web of Science, Cochrane, and PubMed to evaluate the effects of FR on joint range of motion (ROM), flexibility, strength, and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in high-performance athletes. Original articles published from 2018 through September 30, 2022, with controlled trial or pre-post intervention design, in which the FR intervention was compared to a control group, were included. The PEDro scale was used to assess methodological quality. Results: Among the 141 records identified in the search, a total of 10 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In general, the use of FR, in high performance athletes, showed significant improvements on ROM and flexibility, and markedly beneficial effects on DOMS and strength, with no adverse effects on myofascial tissue. FR may act by improving myofascial tissue architecture, attenuating the inflammatory and nociceptive effect. Conclusion: The use of FR seems to be safe; it is an effective tool for the improvement of the physical qualities of mobility, strength, and flexibility, and to decrease DOMS and increase sports performance.