Unfortunately, I wasn't diagnosed with scoliosis until I was 19 years old and dealing with persistent back pain. Ever since then, I have visited a chiropractor every year when the pain becomes unmanageable or I injure myself. I realize this isn't the best solution, but fortunately, I have managed to forego chiropractor visits for the past year, thanks to both my Pilates instructor and chiropractor recommending a foam roller. I went with the 12-inch TriggerPoint Core Foam Massage Roller and have never looked back.
Currently $23, this foam roller has saved me hundreds of dollars in chiropractor visits over the past year. My Pilates instructor first recommended a foam roller in mid-2023 when I injured a muscle in my upper back. She taught me to use one after class, so I went to my chiropractor for his take. He said that I would benefit from a roller that features soft, not hard, compression.
Armed with the advice of my chiropractor and Pilates instructor, I chose the 12-inch version. It has softer compression and provides moderate pressure, making it ideal for beginners new to foam rolling. According to the product description, the foam roller's 3D grid pattern also "promotes the flow of blood and oxygen."
I now use this foam roller at least once daily before bed and haven't had to visit a chiropractor since purchasing it. I place it on the floor atop a yoga mat and roll my back over it, going from the tops of my shoulder blades to my glutes, focusing on any areas where I feel extra tension. I also bring the foam roller on road trips and use it after hours of driving. It's like giving your muscles a mini massage.
Since my particular TriggerPoint foam roller is only 12 inches, it's easy to store in a closet and throw in a trunk when traveling by car. This roller also comes in 18-inch and 36-inch versions -- both are now on sale at 11% off. I went with the lavender color, but it also comes in gray, of which the 18-inch version is available for $27 (28% off).
If you also deal with back or muscle pain, consult your doctor to determine whether a foam roller is right for you.
Now, I just have to figure out how to get this foam roller on a plane when I travel by air.