Are there true benefits of foam rolling?

Foam rolling can provide benefits, but its effectiveness isn't due to the mechanism often believed. According to Dr. Jordan Shallow, foam rolling does not structurally deform fascia or break up scar tissue. Instead, it might stimulate mechanoreceptors, which are sensory receptors that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. This stimulation can have various effects such as providing deep pressure, potentially even reaching the bone depending on the hardness of the foam roller used 1.

Thus, while foam rolling may not achieve the physical manipulations many think, it can still play a useful role in the overall approach to muscle recovery and sensory stimulation.