The Effects of Foam Rolling on the Flexibility of the Lower Extremity — Presentation Detail — Celebration of Scholars

Instructions

Student presentations must have a faculty sponsor.

Abstracts must include a title and a description of the research, scholarship, or creative work. The description should be 150-225 words in length and constructed in a format or style appropriate for the presenter’s discipline.

The following points should be addressed within the selected format or style for the abstract:

A clear statement of the problem or question you pursued, or the scholarly goal or creative theme achieved in your work.
A brief comment about the significance or uniqueness of the work.
A clear description of the methods used to achieve the purpose or goals for the work.
A statement of the conclusions, results, outcomes, or recommendations, or if the work is still in progress, the results you expect to report at the event.

Presenter photographs should be head and shoulder shots comparable to passport photos.

Additional Information

More information is available at carthage.edu/celebration-scholars/. The following are members of the Research, Scholarship, and Creativity Committee who are eager to listen to ideas and answer questions:

Jun Wang
Kim Instenes
John Kirk
Nora Nickels
Andrew Pustina
James Ripley

The Effects of Foam Rolling on the Flexibility of the Lower Extremity

Name: Kaylee Craigo
Major: Athletic Training
Hometown: Monroe, Wi.
Faculty Sponsor:
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Course project

Abstract

Foam rolling is a type of self-myofascial release that can dramatically increase range of motion by reestablishing proper blood flow and function. Myofascial releases are a way to break up adhesions and scar tissue, decrease trigger points, and lengthen muscles. This experiment tested six healthy, active individuals not currently participating in a varsity sport. The researchers expected to find an increase in flexibility after foam rolling. Each individual was tested using the Thomas test and had the degrees of hip and knee flexion measured using a goniometer as well as a sit and reach test measuring hamstring flexibility. The subjects then used a 6-inch high-density plain foam roller for 30 seconds per muscle (including the piriformis, hamstrings, quadriceps and illiotibial band). The subjects were then immediately retested. The data supported the hypothesis that flexibility would increase with foam rolling. Subjects increased in the sit and reach test by an average of 1.85 inches. The average knee flexion increased by 1.08 degree and the average hip flexion increased by 2.41 degrees. These findings are significant for all individuals with muscle soreness and individuals with poor flexibility. Only 30 seconds of foam rolling may improve scores by a significant amount and lead to decreased pain, risk of injury, and increased muscle flexibility and function.

Poster file