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PURPOSE: Self-myofascial release (SMR) using a foam roller is a popular intervention used to improve flexibility and restore skeletal muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and soft-tissue extensibility. However, the mechanism about the effects of SMR on flexibility, delayed onset of muscle soreness and arterial stiffness has not been elucidated. The purpose of this review is to provide basic knowledge for the mechanism about the effects of SMR from a functional and anatomical perspective.METHODS: In this review, we summarized previous studies investigating the effects of SMR which were associated with the human fascial system on flexibility, delayed onset of muscle soreness, arterial stiffness and autonomic nervous system (ANS).RESULTS: SMR with a foam roller can improve flexibility by increasing blood flow and circulation to the soft tissues. Foam rollingrelated mechanisms to increase range of motion or reduce pain include the activation of cutaneous and fascial mechanoreceptors and interstitial afferent nerves that modulate sympathetic/parasympathetic activation as well as the activation of global pain modulatory systems and reflex-induced reductions in muscle and myofascial tone. In addition, SMR with a foam roller may improve arterial stiffness, which was associated with increased circulating level of nitric oxide induced by elevated shear stress on the walls of the blood vessel.CONCLUSIONS: SMR using a foam roller improves flexibility by relaxing tension in skeletal muscles or fascia and may help to improve arterial stiffness and the function of the ANS. We suggest that SMR using a foam roller may help to reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease as a new alternative method.

A Literature Review of the Effects of Self-Myofascial Release with a Foam Roller on Human Fascial System and Cardiovascular Function