The original claim: breaking up fascial adhesions
Foam rolling was originally marketed as physically breaking up connective tissue restrictions — a claim that more recent research suggests is unlikely, since the pressure applied isn't generally sufficient to structurally change dense connective tissue.
What's more likely actually happening
Foam rolling appears to work more through neurological effects — temporarily reducing muscle tension and increasing pain tolerance and perceived range of motion, rather than any structural tissue change.
Where the practical benefit genuinely shows up
Research does support foam rolling for modestly improving short-term range of motion and reducing perceived muscle soreness — a real, if more limited, benefit than the original marketing claims suggested.
A reasonable way to use it
As part of a warm-up to temporarily improve mobility, or post-workout for comfort and modest soreness relief — a genuinely useful tool within realistic expectations, not a required or transformative recovery practice.