Publications

This study aimed to compare the effects of hamstring self-myofascial release using three different foam rollers on the passive and active angles of knee extension and hamstring muscle tone in subjects with shortened hamstrings.

Twenty subjects with shortened ham-strings were included. The passive and active knee extension angles and hamstring muscle tone were measured immediately after each self-myofascial release of the hamstring muscles using a soft-, hard-, or grid-type foam roller. A goniometer was used to measure the passive and active knee extension angles, while MyotonPRO was used to measure the hamstring muscle tone.

The passive and active knee extension angles significantly increased and the hamstring muscle tone significantly decreased after all interventions (p < 0.05). However, none of the dependent variables differed significantly among the three groups (p > 0.05).

All soft-, hard-, and grid-type foam rollers effectively improved hamstring flexibility and muscle tone in subjects with shortened hamstrings. Our findings suggest that individuals should choose the foam roller that is comfortable for them.

Keywords: foam roller, hamstring muscles, knee joint, muscle tightness

This study aimed to investigate the effects of self-myofascial release of the hamstring muscles using three different foam rollers on the passive and active knee extension angles and hamstring muscle tone in participants with shortened hamstrings. Three kinds of foam rollers were effective to recover knee extension angles and hamstring muscle tone. This study suggests that the proper foam rollers should be applied to a given patients comfort and preference.