How to Ease Your Period Cramps using a Foam Roller
Period cramps can be painful and discomforting, and you may feel like you want to curl up in your bed all day. However, there’s a quick and easy solution to ease the cramps, thanks to a foam roller. We understand that not everyone has heard of a foam roller or doesn’t know how to use one, so we’ll show you how.
What is a Foam Roller?
A foam roller is a cylindrical-shaped tool mostly used for self-myofascial release, which is a massage technique to alleviate muscle tightness caused by increased stress, poor posture, or lack of exercise.
How Can foam rolling help with period cramps?
A foam roller can help relieve period cramps by increasing blood flow or circulation to the area, reducing inflammation and breaking up any restrictions or knots in the muscles which can cause pain.
How to Use a Foam Roller on Your Stomach?
Here’s a breakdown of how to use a foam roller on your stomach to relieve period cramps.
Step 1:
Lie down on your stomach with the foam roller under your lower abdomen area.
Step 2:
Roll slowly back and forth on the foam roller while breathing deeply and allowing your muscles to relax.
Step 3:
If you feel any tender spots, hold on to that area for about 20 seconds until the tenderness subsides.
Step 4:
Repeat the process as needed or until you feel the relief you were looking for.
Other Ways to Relieve Period Cramps
Here’s a list of some other things you can do to minimize your period cramps:
1. Exercise:
Aerobic exercise like jogging, swimming, or cycling can get the blood flowing, reduce cramps, and boost your mood.
2. Heat:
Applying heat to your lower abdomen may help to relax muscles and relieve cramps.
3. Massage:
Getting a massage or using a massage tool on your lower abdomen area may also be useful in reducing period cramps.
4. Over-the-counter pain medication:
If you are experiencing intense pain, over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce cramps and inflammation.
FAQs
Q1. Is it safe to use a foam roller during a period?
Yes, it’s safe to use a foam roller during a period unless you’re experiencing severe cramps and haven’t seen a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Q2. Can I use anything else instead of a foam roller to relieve period cramps?
Yes, you can use a tennis ball, a heating pad, or a massage tool instead of a foam roller.
Q3. How often should I foam roll during my period?
You can foam roll once or twice a day for about five minutes each time, or as needed.
Q4. Does foam rolling hurt?
Foam rolling can be painful, especially if you have tight muscles. However, the pain should decrease as you continue to use the foam roller.
Q5. How long does it take for foam rolling to work?
It depends on the individual’s body and how tight the muscles are. It can take a few minutes to start feeling the benefits or several days to a week.
Conclusion
Period cramps can be debilitating and reduce your productivity. Fortunately, using a foam roller on your lower abdomen area can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with period cramps. However, if your cramps are persistent and severe, consult a medical professional as soon as possible.
