Use SMR Technique to Accelerate Recovery

March 1, 2021

What is SMR Technique?

Self-myofascial release is a safe and easy technique. It utilizes your own body weight and minimal tools to increase flexibility and muscle recovery. Objects such as foam rollers, lacrosse balls, tennis balls, or massage balls can be applied to the designated area. The application breaks up muscle adhesions, increases muscle tissue flexibility, and helps flush out toxins and stale blood. The level of soreness and area of the body often determine the most appropriate tool that should be used. You can also use your own bodyweight to dictate the amount of force applied to the area. More stubborn and painful adhesions may or may not require an increase in applied pressure. Adhesions that are left untreated can often turn into trigger points or knots. Trigger points can cause constant discomfort, impair mobility, and create muscular asymmetry. If a particular muscle feels super sore, hop on a foam roller!

When is the Best Time to Use SMR?

SMR technique can be utilized before physical activity, after physical activity, or even on a recovery day. Prior to physical activity, SMR allows for an increase in tissue function. It helps the muscle to lengthen easier during dynamic movement and can greatly improve the effectiveness of a warmup. The applied pressure will break up muscle adhesions and improve elasticity in the soft tissues.

Muscle adhesions are damaged muscle tissues that have not fully healed. Adhesions often need additional assistance in the recovery process. These can commonly occur after a tough game, intense workout, due to frequent repetitive motions, or any time the muscle fibers have been damaged. The same process can be done post-workout to restore normal muscle and joint function as well as flush out lactic acid and other toxins that may have accumulated during the bout of physical activity.

How to Navigate

Initially, discomfort in the targeted area might be intense but, you should be able to adjust the pressure accordingly. You should apply maximum tolerable pressure in order to achieve the most benefits. This is a great supplement to all kinds of physical activity to help facilitate recovery and help the body transition from states of inactivity and activity.

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