Barbara , great question. This work can help soften scar tissue and restore elasticity - yes. Stay sensitive to the body though , each person is unique so how soft or hard the tissue is personal . The work can help, for sure.
Michelle , you can use a tennis ball for all of this. The franklin ball is slightly larger and the texture and ability to pump it up or down allows you to adapt the pressure and resistance to the needs of the person. Tennis ball is not a variable. Foam roller is also a content and you cannot get into small areas in the same manner. BUT if you don't have anything but a tennis ball or a foam roller - use them... you will get benefits not matter what.