What Is Voodoo Flossing, and Should You Try It?

If you’re looking to increase your mobility and possibly enhance recovery after a strenuous workout or athletic event, you may want to consider voflossingAlso known as muscle flossing or tissue flossing, voodoo flossing is a compression therapy technique. It uses a heavy duty resistance band typically made of latex rubber to compress a joint or muscle group while performing certain movements through a full range of motioRead on to learn about what it is, how it works, its benefits and risks, and who should consider employing the technique.

Izusek/GettyImageWhat is voodoo flossin“Voodoo flossing is a method of soft tissue mobilization that uses a latex rubber band, similar to a resistance band, for compression during passive or active mobilization,” says John Gallucci, DPT, ATC, CEO of JAG-ONE Physical TherapThe band is typically wrapped around a joint or muscle group like an ace bandage wrap might bWhen you floss your muscles, Gallucci says you constrict blood flow to the compressed area, and when you take it off, the blood flow rushes to the affected area and floods it with oxygen and nutrients.

“Voodoo flossing is meant to restore joint range of motion, increase blood flow to restricted areas, and compress swollen joints that lack motion and are stiff,” he explainsMuscle flossing is often used before or after a sporting event or workout — but never during an active fitness session, event, or game. Some of the more common areas wrapped include the quadriceps, hamstrings, ankles, elbows, shoulders, triceps, lower leg, biceps, and kneesSUMMVoodoo flossing uses a latex band to compress a specific area of your body during passive or active mobilization.

How do you do iThe best way to get started with voodoo flossing is to work with a physical therapist or athletic trainer. They can help identify the correct area to wrap show you how to do it. While each provider may have a slightly different process, the general steps are the samStart by wrapping the area with the band at no more than 50% tension and about a 50% overlap. Aim to wrap the band a few to several inches above and below the muscle or joint. You will tuck the end of

the band into the wrapped baNext, move that limb through a range of motion exercise. For example, if your knee is wrapped, do 1 minute of standing heel-to-glute exercises with the wrapped leg. After 1 minute, transition to 1 minute of bodyweight squats. The total movement time is 30 seconds to 2 minutUpon completion of the exercise, the wrap is removed to allow for increased blood flow to that joint.