Today we are going to be looking at the IT band and how to use myofascial release techniques to alleviate knee stiffness and mobility. What is the IT Band? The IT band is connective tissue that’s responsible for hip flexion. It originates at the top of the pelvis and goes right the way down to […]
Using a Lacrosse Ball for Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a topic I find to be very under discussed in the fitness industry, especially as it can have such a huge positive effect on our general health and well-being as well as treating specific injuries.
So, What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial release is a manual pressure technique used to eliminate pain and restore mobility to restricted dysfunctional muscle tissues. This technique just requires a Lacrosse Ball and is essential for any workout program as it directly relates to posture and injury prevention.
A lacrosse ball is a hard, typically rubber, ball that measures 6cm across. While it was originally created for the game Lacrosse (who knew!) it turns out that this also makes it an extremely versatile device for self-massage (click here to buy our Lacrosse Ball on Amazon).
When clients first come to me I always ask them to tell me about injuries that they experience, or aches and pains. By far the most common problems I hear about are knee pain, hip pain, frozen shoulder and, especially with office workers, back pain.
Some clients have told me they think they have chronic joint problems, arthritis or even sciatica it is so bad. In truth, most are treatable or can be significantly reduced by simple Myofascial Release Techniques.
The thing many people do not realise is that the pain felt in these typical areas are often caused by other areas. So working through your body with a lacrosse ball and a set of simple exercises can really help release the tight areas of your body and hence the pain you are feeling.
So in this section, I'm going to show you how to do a set of myofascial release techniques that will help fix the most common complaints I get from my personal training clients.
How To Use A Lacrosse Ball to Relieve Muscle Pain with Self-Massage & Myofascial Release
If you are constantly battling chronic pain, the chances are you won’t be able to do the exercises and stretches you need to do to keep yourself fit and healthy. This is where self-massage and Myofascial Release can help. All it takes is a Lacrosse ball and a few techniques that we will cover here
Gluteus Medius/Minimus Myofascial Release Technique for Back Pain
This myofascial release technique can help with lower back pain and some causes of knee pain. With this technique, we’re going to be targeting the Glute Medius and Minimus, which are important factors in addressing those issues. Gluteus Medius Issues The primary function of the Glute Medius is to keep your pelvis level during walking […]
Piriformis Myofascial Release Technique: How To Relieve Hip, Lower Back and Buttock Pain
Several muscles contribute to pain in the hips, buttock and lower back but this article covers trigger point release with a Lacrosse Ball for the main culprit, the Piriformis.