Foam Roller Compared to Massage on Reducing Calf Muscle Tone in Healthy Subjects (FRTONE)

A foam roller is a cylindrical tool used for self-myofascial release (SMR), a technique that involves applying pressure to muscle groups to alleviate muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and reduce soreness. It is widely used in physical therapy, sports rehabilitation, and fitness routines. The foam roller is typically made from a dense foam material that allows for controlled compression of the muscles and fascia during rolling movements.

In the study, participants will use a foam roller to target the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) on their dominant leg. The foam roller technique consists of rolling the device along the targeted muscle areas in both directions-cranial to caudal (from the top to the bottom) and vice versa-at a slow, controlled pace (30 rolls per minute).

The foam roller is used for self-myofascial release (SMR) to reduce muscle tightness and improve flexibility. In this study, participants will use the foam roller on their dominant calf muscles, rolling it up and down at a controlled pace (30 rolls per minute). The pressure applied should be moderate, staying within a pain tolerance of 6/10 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).

The technique is repeated three times, with a one-minute rest between sets. The goal is to enhance muscle relaxation and reduce muscle tone

The therapeutic massage used in this study involves manual techniques to reduce muscle tone and improve flexibility in the calf muscles. It includes:

1. Deep Gliding Stroke: Sliding from the upper to the lower part of the calf to relax the muscles.
2. Soleus Compression: Applying pressure to the soleus muscle with the hands to release tension.
3. Calf Compression: Applying pressure to specific points on the calf to alleviate stiffness.

Each technique lasts for 2 minutes, with a total intervention time of 8 minutes per participant. The goal is to reduce muscle tone and enhance relaxation

The therapeutic massage used in this study involves manual techniques to reduce muscle tone and improve flexibility in the calf muscles. It includes:

1. Deep Gliding Stroke: Sliding from the upper to the lower part of the calf to relax the muscles.
2. Soleus Compression: Applying pressure to the soleus muscle with the hands to release tension.
3. Calf Compression: Applying pressure to specific points on the calf to alleviate stiffness.

Each technique lasts for 2 minutes, with a total intervention time of 8 minutes per participant. The goal is to reduce muscle tone and enhance relaxation