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Body tempering is an emerging method of myofascial treatment that involves applying a weighted steel cylinder to a muscle group to manipulate the tissue passively under the device. Unlike foam rolling, which is an active process, body tempering is passive, allowing the client to relax and, by knowing the mass of the device in use, the pressure can be controlled and consistent. 

Laguna Niguel PT Dr. Patrick conducted a comprehensive study to scientifically explore the additional benefits of body tempering on soreness, range of motion (ROM), vertical jump performance, and maximal strength in D1 football players — and his efforts, process, and data are recently published!

The premise of the study:

There has been limited research to explore the use of body tempering and when the use of this modality would be most appropriate. This study aimed to determine if a body tempering intervention would be appropriate pre-exercise by examining its effects on perceived soreness, range of motion (ROM), and force production compared to an intervention of traditional stretching.

The subjects for this study were ten Division 1 (D1) football linemen from Sacred Heart University (Age: 19.9 ± 1.5 years, body mass: 130.9 ± 12.0 kg, height: 188.4 ± 5.1 cm, training age: 8.0 ± 3.5 years). Subjects participated in three sessions with the first session being baseline testing. The second and third sessions involved the participants being randomized to receive either the body tempering or stretching intervention for the second session and then receiving the other intervention the final week. Soreness using a visual analog scale (VAS), ROM, counter movement jump (CMJ) peak force and jump height, static jump (SJ) peak force and jump height, and isometric mid-thigh pull max force production were assessed.

The results of the study concluded that body tempering does not have a negative effect on muscle performance but did practically reduce perceived muscle soreness. Since body tempering is effective at reducing soreness in athletes, it can be recommended for athletes as part of their pre-exercise warmup without negatively affecting isometric or dynamic force production.

Have a further look at this fantastic accomplishment and valuable information here: https://www.mdpi.com/2411-5142/7/1/9/htm

The entire team at Rausch Physical Therapy is committed to providing the best patient care, and we will explore the most effective methods of treatment ourselves to ensure we deliver! Come and see us for outstanding personalized care to improve your health and well-being! Call us today at (949) 276-5401 or visit our Facebook page here.