,

    | Science-Based Article

    Best 11 Foam Roller Exercises for Better Lower Back Pain

    Foam rollers are an effective tool for stretching, and this article will explore the best foam rollers for lower back pain relief.

    Disclaimer:

    The content of this article has been compiled using academic articles from reputable science journal platforms. Every effort has been made to ensure that the main content remains true and accurate in comparison to the original articles. However, it is important to note that the information provided is for general knowledge purposes only and should not be considered as professional or scientific advice.

    While we strive to make the knowledge easily accessible to individuals with or without a science background, it is recommended to consult with experts or refer to additional sources for a comprehensive understanding of up-to-date scientific knowledge.

    If you appreciate the work we do, please consider supporting us by purchasing the recommended products through the links provided in our content. Your support helps us continue to provide valuable and quality information to help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

    Lower back pain is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide, and is a leading cause of disability globally, with an estimated worldwide incidence of 7.3% .

    One of the best ways to relieve lower back pain is through stretching exercises .

    Stretching not only helps to ease the pain but also improves flexibility, range of motion, and overall physical health. Foam rollers are an effective tool for stretching, and this article will explore the best foam rollers for lower back pain relief .

    In this article, we will also answer some frequently asked questions about foam rollers for lower back pain, such as which type of foam roller is best for back pain and how they can help with pain relief.

    Benefits Of Foam Roller Stretches For Lower Back Pain

    Foam roller stretches have been gaining popularity as a self-massage technique for relieving muscle pain and tension . When it comes to low back pain, foam roller stretches can be particularly effective in providing relief. Here are some of the benefits of using a foam roller for low back pain:

    ✔️ Helps release tension: Foam roller stretches can target the tight muscles in the lower back and help release the tension that has built up over time. This can result in reduced pain and improved flexibility .

    The combination of using a foam roller or ball to compress myofascial trigger points and static stretching has been found to be more effective in reducing anterior knee pain caused by exercise in fitness runners than just compression or stretching alone. Results showed that after the intervention, 90% of participants in the group that received compression with a foam roller or ball and static stretching were pain-free, compared to 60% in the group that only received compression and 40% in the group that only did static stretching .

    The single application of self-myofascial release techniques with foam rollers may significantly improve muscle flexibility in long-distance runners .

    ✔️ Improves blood flow: they can also help improve blood flow to the muscles in the lower back. This increased blood flow can help facilitate healing and recovery .

    ✔️ Provides a cost-effective solution: Foam rollers are relatively inexpensive compared to other forms of therapy or massage. They can be purchased for personal use and are a cost-effective way to manage low back pain.

    ✔️ Can be done at home: They can be done at home, making them convenient for those who cannot visit a therapist or chiropractor regularly.

    When it comes to choosing a foam roller for low back pain relief, there are several types available on the market. The following types of foam rollers are recommended for low back pain relief:

    These items are made of high-density foam, which provides more pressure and support for the lower back muscles. They are also durable and can withstand repeated use. In the next section, we will discuss how to use foam rollers for low back pain relief.

    How To Use Foam Rollers For Lower Back Pain Relief

    Using this equipment for low back pain relief is a simple and effective technique that can be done at home. Here’s how to do it:

    1. Find a flat surface: Place the foam roller on a flat surface such as a yoga mat or a carpet.
    2. Lie on your back: Sit on the foam roller and slowly lower yourself onto your back, bending your knees with your feet on the floor.
    3. Position the foam roller: Move the foam roller to the area where you are experiencing low back pain. It should be positioned just above your hips.
    4. Roll back and forth: Slowly roll back and forth on the foam roller, using your legs to control the movement. Stop and hold on to any tender points for a few seconds to help release the tension.
    5. Repeat: Repeat the rolling process for 2-3 minutes, or until you feel relief from your low back pain.

    There are also other foam roller stretches that can target specific areas of the low back. These include:

    ✔️ Spinal Twist: Lie on your back with the foam roller under your hips. Cross one leg over the other and slowly lower both legs to the side. Hold for a few seconds and then switch sides.

    ✔️ Glute Stretch: Sit on the foam roller and cross one ankle over the opposite knee. Lean your weight into the hip of the crossed leg and roll back and forth. Repeat on the other side.

    ✔️ Quad Stretch: Lie on your stomach with the foam roller under your hips. Bring one heel up towards your glutes and slowly roll back and forth. Repeat on the other side.

    Best Yoga Rollers For Lower Back Pain Relief

    There are many types of yoga rollers available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits for low back pain relief. Here are some of the best foam rollers for low back pain:

    TriggerPoint Foam Massage Roller:

    • Best feature: Grid pattern for targeted massage
    • The unique grid pattern on this foam roller allows for targeted massage and deep tissue relief, making it ideal for those seeking a more intense rolling experience.
    TriggerPoint Foam Massage Roller

    OPTP Pro-Roller Soft Density Foam Roller:

    • Best feature: Soft density for gentle massage
    • This foam roller has a softer density, making it suitable for those who prefer a more gentle massage or are new to foam rolling.
    OPTP-Pro-Roller Soft Density-Foam-Roller

    Amazon Basics High-Density Round Yoga Roller:

    • Best feature: Budget-friendly option
    • This high-density foam roller from Amazon Basics offers a simple design and an affordable price, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
    Amazon Basics High-Density Round-Foam-Roller
    Best 11 Foam Roller Exercises for Better Lower Back Pain 12

    ProsourceFit Flex Foam Yoga Rollers:

    • Best feature: Half-round design for versatility
    • The half-round design of these foam rollers allows for a variety of exercises and stretches, providing versatility in use.
    ProsourceFit Flex Foam Roller

    321 STRONG Foam Yoga Roller:

    • Best feature: Medium density and 3D textured surface
    • This medium-density foam roller features a 3D textured surface, providing a balance between intensity and comfort during massages and muscle recovery.
    321 STRONG Foam Roller

    Rolling With It Foam Yoga Roller:

    • Best feature: Eco-friendly materials
    • This foam roller is made from eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
    Rolling With It Foam Roller

    The Original Body Roller:

    • Best feature: Compact size for portability
    • The compact size of this foam roller makes it easy to transport and store, ideal for those who want to take their roller on the go.
    The Original Body Foam Roller

    Brazyn Morph Roller:

    • Best feature: Collapsible design for travel
    • The Brazyn Morph Foam Roller features a unique collapsible design, making it perfect for those who need a portable option for travel or limited storage space.
    Brazyn Morph Foam Roller

    Living.Fit Foam Excercise Roller:

    • Best feature: Online workout support
    • This foam comes with access to online workout videos and support, helping users get the most out of their foam rolling experience
    Living.Fit Foam Roller

    Fox and Bear Global Wave Foam Excercise Roller:

    • Best feature: Wave pattern for targeted pressure
    • The wave pattern on this roller provides targeted pressure and relief, making it suitable for those who want a more focused massage.
    Fox and Bear Global Wave Foam Roller

    Gaiam Restore Marbled Foam Roller:

    • Best feature: Aesthetic design
    • This foam features a marbled design, adding an aesthetic touch to a functional fitness tool.
    Gaiam Restore Marbled Foam Roller

    Each of these rollers has its own unique features and benefits for low back pain relief. It is important to choose a foam yoga roller that is appropriate for your level of pain and sensitivity and to follow proper technique when performing foam roller stretches.

    The Bottom Line

    In summary, exercise roller stretches can be an effective way to relieve low back pain. By using this item, you can target specific areas of tension and tightness in your back muscles, helping to release knots and promote relaxation. There are many different types of yoga rollers available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. When selecting one for low back pain relief, it’s important to consider factors such as density, size, and texture.

    To use a yoga roller for low back pain relief, it’s important to follow proper technique and start slowly, gradually increasing the intensity of your stretches over time. Some of the best roller stretches for low back pain include the thoracic extension, glute bridge, and spinal twist. By incorporating these stretches into your daily routine, you can help to prevent and alleviate low back pain.

    Overall, yoga roller stretches can be a valuable tool in your low back pain relief arsenal. By using the right one and practicing proper technique, you can help to improve your flexibility, mobility, and overall well-being. So why not give foam yoga roller for stretches a try today and see how they can benefit you?

    How do I use a yoga roller for my lower back?

    One common method is to lie on your back with the foam roller positioned under your shoulder blades, then raise your hips and lean into the roller while moving it up and down along your shoulder blades until you find a sensitive spot. Another method is to place the roller on the ground and roll your lower back against it.

    How often should I use a foam yoga roller for my lower back pain?

    It is recommended to start with 5-10 minutes of foam rolling per day and gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable with the technique. It’s also important to listen to your body and not overdo it, especially on tender spots.

    Can foam rolling cause more harm than good for my lower back?

    While foam rolling can be an effective way to relieve lower back pain, it’s important to use proper technique and not overdo it, as excessive pressure or rolling on tender spots can cause more harm than good. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or pain relief program.

    References

    Fitnature uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

    • GBD 2015 Disease and Injury Incidence and Prevalence Collaborators. “Global, Regional, and National Incidence, Prevalence, and Years Lived with Disability for 310 Diseases and Injuries, 1990-2015: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015.” Lancet (London, England), vol. 388, no. 10053, Oct. 2016, pp. 1545–602, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(16)31678-6.
    • GBD 2015 Disease and Injury Incidence and Prevalence Collaborators. “Global, Regional, and National Incidence, Prevalence, and Years Lived with Disability for 310 Diseases and Injuries, 1990-2015: A Systematic Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015.” Lancet (London, England), vol. 388, no. 10053, Oct. 2016, pp. 1545–602, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(16)31678-6.
    • Reshma, Lokesh R., Senthil SELVAM P, M. S. Sundaram,. Effect of Stretching and Strengthening on Low Back Pain among High Heels Using Young Females. Accessed 8 Sept. 2023.
    • Macdonald, Graham Z et al. “Foam rolling as a recovery tool after an intense bout of physical activity.” Medicine and science in sports and exercise vol. 46,1 (2014): 131-42. doi:10.1249/MSS.0b013e3182a123db
    • Wiewelhove, Thimo et al. “A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Foam Rolling on Performance and Recovery.” Frontiers in physiology vol. 10 376. 9 Apr. 2019, doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00376
    • Macdonald, Graham Z et al. “Foam rolling as a recovery tool after an intense bout of physical activity.” Medicine and science in sports and exercise vol. 46,1 (2014): 131-42. doi:10.1249/MSS.0b013e3182a123db
    • Wiewelhove, Thimo et al. “A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Foam Rolling on Performance and Recovery.” Frontiers in physiology vol. 10 376. 9 Apr. 2019, doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.00376
    • Dębski, Przemysław, et al. “The Parameters of Foam Rolling, Self-Myofascial Release Treatment: A Review of the Literature.” Biomedical Human Kinetics, vol. 11, no. 1, Feb. 2019, pp. 36–46, https://doi.org/10.2478/bhk-2019-0005.
    • Sulowska-Daszyk, Iwona, and Agnieszka Skiba. “The Influence of Self-Myofascial Release on Muscle Flexibility in Long-Distance Runners.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,1 457. 1 Jan. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph19010457
    • Li, Lihui et al. “Compression of Myofascial Trigger Points With a Foam Roller or Ball for Exercise-induced Anterior Knee Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Alternative therapies in health and medicine vol. 26,3 (2020): 16-23.
    • Sulowska-Daszyk, Iwona, and Agnieszka Skiba. “The Influence of Self-Myofascial Release on Muscle Flexibility in Long-Distance Runners.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,1 457. 1 Jan. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph19010457
    • Lee, Cheonok, and Sewon Lee. “A Literature Review of the Effects of Self-Myofascial Release with a Foam Roller on Human Fascial System and Cardiovascular Function.” Exercise Science, vol. 29, no. 4, Nov. 2020, pp. 329–38, https://doi.org/10.15857/ksep.2020.29.4.329.

    5 min read


    Key Takeaways

    • These are items that we have personally vetted and use daily in our kitchens
    • We’ve provided Amazon Affiliate links to these products – As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases from these links.

    How we vet brands and products

    • At YourfitNature, we prioritize vetting the products and brands we recommend in our content.
    • Our team of experts evaluates each brand and product based on several criteria to ensure that they meet our high standards for quality, credibility, and integrity.
    • By doing this vetting work, we aim to provide our readers with recommendations for products and companies that they can trust.
    • We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

    Read more about our vetting process.

    Share with a friend!

    Follow Us


    We’re on a mission to make healthy living easy and affordable for everyone.