Sticks & Rollers | RunGadget

The Stick Review

The Stick, is a self massage tool that can be use to work cramped, sore, and tight muscles, especially in the legs. It is a basic rolling device fixed with several hard, bead-like rings that spin freely around The Stick itself. It is a very simple and highly effective device—one of our favorites for treating a variety of aches and pains. Unlike bands, straps or creams, self massage actually addresses the problem, instead of just masking it. This makes self-massage devices, such as The Stick, foam rollers, and foot rollers, a long-term investment for any serious runner.

To use the The Stick, simply grip it on each side and roll it like a rolling pin. When rolled over a muscle or bone, the rings act as hands, pressing and smoothing out sore spots. The user can apply the stick to any part of their body. The stick helps to break-up the strong connective tissues that can become hard and knotted through exercise. It releases the trigger points that send sharp pain through the legs and it opens up blood flow, delivering muscle-building oxygen and nutrients. The Stick works exceptionally well on quadriceps, calves, the IT band, and hamstrings. My personal preference is to use it on my calves, where I often don’t feel that the foam roller digs in enough. However, I still foam roll my IT band, and prefer the foam roller for that area over The Stick. I really recommend that runners own both The Stick and a foam roller.

The Stick is strong, durable, and easy to use. It also comes in a few different versions and sizes. The regular version is 17 inches long and is my favorite for travel. The long version is 24 inches, which can cover more area, such as the chest or back, but is also my preference for home use on the legs. The sprinter stick is similar in weight and size but provides a more rigid body with tougher rings. That version is often preferred by professional athletes who need the most comprehensive recovery treatment.

Overall, The stick is one of the most important tools a runner can have. It is powerful, portable, and inexpensive, and it provides some of the best self-massage that you can get.

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Plantar fasciitis is a running enthusiast’s nightmare. The plantar fascia is the tough, connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the base of the toes. Plantar faciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is overstretched, inflamed, or experiences tearing. The pain, usually located on the underside of the foot, can sideline an athlete. It also increases the chances of knee pain, especially among runners. Overpronation, long distance running, long periods of weight bearing, and a high BMI can all lead to the condition. Fortunately, products such as the Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls can speed up recovery time by providing much-needed massage to the area.

Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls Review

Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls are solid, maple, wooden massage balls that come in two sizes. The small balls have a 1″ diameter while the medium balls boast a 1.5″ diameter. This allows the user to choose a size in order to target the heel, metatarsal, or arch areas. In addition to relieving the tension in the plantar fascia, the balls also enhance flexibility in the forefoot, arch, and calves. By rolling the bottom of the feet on the Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls, targeted deep tissue massage is applied to the area of choice.

Massage can help shorten the duration of recovery, allowing runners to get back on the road. By continuing to run on the injured foot, the plantar fascia becomes tighter and scar tissue builds up. Muscle memory must be restored for the muscles to relax and the tightness to release. Massage does just this. The longitudinal pressure placed on the bottom of the foot from the massage balls, loosens the muscles. The balls target deep tissue which also stimulates tissue healing and breaks up any scar tissue. Because they provide massage and promote flexibility in the area, the Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls can work to a runner’s benefit.

The massage balls are extremely user-friendly. Simply place the ball on a flat, non-slip surface and then roll the entire foot over the ball. Focus on the areas experiencing pain and tension. The small balls are effective in massaging the metatarsal and heel area, while the large balls are targeted to the arch of the foot. Use the balls as often as possible, especially in the morning, for maximum results.

Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls offer several benefits for an affordable cost. The balls apply deep tissue massage to the injured area, reduce tension, increase blood flow to the foot, promote flexibility in the arches, forefoot, and calves, break up scar tissue, and can lead to a speedier recovery. Runners tend to overuse the plantar fascia which aggravates existing injuries and causes new ones. It’s important to take time to recover to prevent frequent flare-ups. While the Pro-Tec Plantar Fasciitis Massage Balls can help individuals get back to running faster, they cannot be used as a sole form of therapy. Those with plantar fasciitis should speak to a physician and create a personalized recovery plan.

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