Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
What is IASTM
IASTM is a specialized myofascial release and massage technique used by physical therapist to treat individuals diagnosed with soft tissue dysfunction. It is a relatively newer treatment that involves using metal or plastic tools to improve soft tissue mobility in your body. These ergonomically shaped tools help your PT massage and mobilize your muscles, fascia and tendons. The goals of using these tools during IASTM remains consistent: to help free soft tissue and myofascial restrictions to improve the way you move. IASTM introduces controlled stimulation to affected soft tissue structures to stimulate a local inflammatory response. This begins the cascade of healing, resulting in the remodeling of soft tissue structures. Our Physical therapists will use these techniques in conjunction with therapeutic exercises and therapeutic modalities to correct biomechanical deficiencies.
What Is A Soft-Tissue Injury?
A soft-tissue injury involves damage to the muscles, ligaments, tendons and/or fascia somewhere in the body. Common soft-tissue injuries usually occur from a sprain, strain, blow to the body resulting in a contusion (ruptured blood vessels/bruising), or overuse of a particular body part. Soft tissue injuries can result in pain, swelling, bruising and loss of function. Adhesions within the soft tissue may develop as a result of repeated strain, surgery, immobilization or other mechanisms.
Indications
Not every patient should receive IASTM treatment. Our highly trained physical therapist will determine if you have certain impairments that may benefit from such treatment. These impairments may include:
- Limited Mobility
- Pain with motion
- Loss of ROM
- Decreased muscle recruitment
- Excessive scar tissue formation
If you have any of these impairments, your Physical Therapist may choose to use IASTM to help improve your condition. Various conditions that may benefit from the application of IASTM techniques may include:
- Tendonitis and tendinopathy
- Ligament sprains
- Plantar fasciitis
- Scar tissue from surgery or trauma
- Myofascial pain
- Musculoskeletal imbalance
If you have any of these conditions, your Physical Therapist may choose to use IASTM during treatment if warranted.
Benefits of IASTM
- Improved tissue extensibility
- Decreased pain
- Improved range of motion
- Decreased scar tissue formation
- Improved cellular activity near the site of injury
- Improved physical therapist comfort during treatment
Including IASTM during your therapy sessions to decrease tissue restrictions and to restore normal motion can help you quickly get back to your normal active lifestyle.
