Do these items or techniques break up scar tissue or lengthen muscle? No, but they do help! These items typically help your muscles relax, which in turn relieves tension and can allow more motion.

This is a neurophysiological response to a novel stimulus. I liken it to waking the tissue out of its usual stupor using a strange new sensation from your item of choice. 

And because the effects are temporary and short lived, timing is a factor. Often these tools are best used before a workout.

These techniques can also help with pain - you know when you bang your elbow, and it feels better when you rub it? It’s because your brain focuses on the rubbing rather than the discomfort. The sensations felt from these items can override pain signals.

So while there is a lack of research evidence demonstrating the purported effects of these treatments, I personally believe that because there is little to no harm, I am happy to utilize them - if it makes my client feel and move better. But it’s important to me that clients understand why it’s being used and what it’s actually doing. 

(September 19 2020)