Foam rolling (FR) is a technique involving the application of external pressure to muscles and connective tissues using different devices (e.g. foam rollers, massage rollers, balls, etc.) , with the aim of reducing muscle tension, soreness, and stiffness, and improving circulation, and flexibility. Emerging evidence suggests that FR may also enhance tissue perfusion and blood flow and could induce a relaxation response, potentially modulating autonomic balance toward increased parasympathetic activity. The cervical region is of particular interest due to the presence of clinically relevant vascular structures, such as the carotid arteries, whose mechanical stimulation may elicit cardiovascular responses. Accordingly, the present study was designed to investigate the acute effects of cervical foam rolling on blood pressure, while simultaneously examining tissue hardness and heart rate variability as potential underlying mediators, and to explore a possible dose-response relationship between foam rolling volume and blood pressure through an inter-set analysis. Additionally, the acute effects of cervical foam rolling on local range of movement were also investigated.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, and mean arterial pressure
Timeframe: - Day 1: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention; - Day 2: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention.
Tissue Hardness
Timeframe: - Day 1: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention; - Day 2: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention.
Heart rate variability
Timeframe: - Day 1: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention; - Day 2: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention.
Cervical range of motion (ROM)
Timeframe: - Day 1: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention; - Day 2: Baseline (upon arrival) and immediately post-intervention.