Your feet take a pounding on a daily basis. Whether you’re an athlete, a mom or work a 9 to 5 your feet are supporting you throughout the day. Plantar fasciitis often occurs when the feet are overstressed and the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. Tight muscles in the feet and heel striking can worse plantar fasciitis pain. Foam rolling is commonly used by athletes and physical therapist to loosen tight muscles and relieve soreness. Foam rolling can be beneficial for you too and help with plantar fasciitis pain.  

Benefits of Foam Rolling: Myofascial Release

Myofascial release is a method of muscle therapy used by masseuse or athletes. Gentle, sustained presuure is placed on the soft tissue as traction is applied to the fascia. The fascia is softened and lengthened, and scar tissue is broken apart. Myofascial release occurs during foam rolling and can be incredibly beneficial for suffers of plantar fasciitis. The method is know to reduce pain, increase range of motion and improve overall flexibility.  

Increased Tissue Mobility

New layers of fascia are laid down as scar tissue regularly or after injuries. If the tissue isn’t broken up, mobilized or properly aligned it could mean more problems for your feet in the future. Scar tissue can inhibit tissue mobility and function. You may be able to continue on normal for some time but down the line it may affect you. Foam rolling helps increase tissue mobility and breaks apart problem areas. Regular foam rolling can help tissue remain properly aligned and help you avoid pain.  

How do I get started?

Foam rolling can be done daily one to three times a day. If you don’t have a foam roller you can start out with a tennis ball. When foam rolling be sure to roll along the entire length of the foot from heel to toe. The more you foam roll the greater the benefits!