Observation on the therapeutic effect of rolling the target muscle groups of lower limbs with foam rollers of different shore hardness on DOMS

Objective: This experiment aims to explore how foam rollers of different Shore hardness affect DOMS, providing insights for sports therapy.

Methods: Forty participants from Shanghai Sanda University who have no habit of strength training, no lower limb injury, and meet the health standards were selected to conduct three experiments under the conditions of no intervention, using a 50 Shore hardness foam roller, and using a 60 Shore hardness foam roller, respectively. Data were recorded before and after modeling, as well as 24, 48, and 72 hours later.

Results: There were no significant differences in various indicators among the three groups of subjects before and immediately after DOMS modeling (P>0.05). Following intervention, the 60 Shore hardness foam roller significantly reduced DOMS pain (NRS score) compared to the 50 Shore hardness roller, improved knee flexion range of motion, and increased standing long jump distance (P<0.05).

Conclusions: The 60 Shore hardness foam roller is superior to the 50 Shore hardness foam roller in alleviating DOMS, improving joint range of motion, and enhancing athletic performance.