16 months ago

flyingpig • 100

@flyingpig

Hi,

While listening to a sports recovery podcast, the host discussed the benefits of massage and foam rolling. He mentioned that he read a book where the author claimed that foam rolling might reduce blood pressure but could raise eye pressure.

I tried to find more information about this topic through Google, but I didn't come across much useful information. I'm not entirely convinced about the accuracy of this claim, so I want to check with FitEye community to get insights.

Regarding my foam rolling routine, I mostly do it in a sitting position for about 20-30 minutes to relax different parts of my legs, with only 1 or 2 sets where I lie facing down to relax my quads/calf tibia. I'm wondering if this routine raises any concerns and if I should make any adjustments.

Thanks!!

16 months ago

david 4.3k

@david_fe

Great question! I have been doing foam rolling for years and I find it very beneficial -- in fact, essential. In general it does not raise my IOP. However, lying face down for any activities (even sleep) can raise IOP:

with only 1 or 2 sets where I lie facing down to relax my quads/calf tibia.

For these positions, I have developed an approach that works for me. I position myself (especially upper body and head) on my side rather than face down. During foam rolling this allows me to put all of my weight on one leg at a time, which gives me superior results. By twisting my body slightly, My upper body and face are sideways (facing the wall) while the front of my quads can be aimed downwards towards the floor, directly on top of the foam roller.

From this position, it is also an easy transition to work the side of my leg -- the iliotibial band (IT band) area.

I take the same approach for planks when I do them -- I do side planks. During all exercises, I try to avoid the face-down position, even if that means rotating my upper body only. I hope I have explained this well enough for it to make sense. Also, sorry for my delayed reply. I'm surprised nobody else replied sooner.