What is IASTM?
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, or more commonly known as IASTM, is the use of tools to assess tissue quality and to treat areas identified to have scar tissue, soft tissue restrictions, chronic inflammation or degeneration.
It can help alleviate symptoms associated with limited or painful motion, motor control issues such as coordination or muscle activation, or muscle recruitment issues. Some of the common conditions that can be treated with IASTM are Achilles tendinosis, tendinopathies, IT band syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, and plantar fasciitis. These are just a few of the injuries that IASTM can treat, and there are others.
How does IASTM works?
The therapist applies firm pressure to the tool as the tool glides across the tissue in a scrapping fashion. A lubricant of some sort, typically lotion or oil is used to allow the tools to glide across the skin more freely.
The instruments work to comb through soft tissue restrictions and scar tissue, producing micro-trauma to the affected tissue. This stimulates a local inflammatory process, initiating reabsorption of unhealthy tissue and promoting tissue remodeling and healthy tissue production.Soft tissue restrictions can occur following surgery. These restrictions can also develop from overuse, such as running, throwing, repeated motions at work, or even prolonged postures sitting at a desk. Likewise, they can develop with lack of use, as may be the case with prolonged splinting or bracing.
Benefits of IASTM
Among the top benefits of IASTM are:
Faster rehabilitation and recovery
Improved pain and joint mobility through the neuro-chemical benefits
Less need for anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs or Ibuprofen
Improved blood and lymphatic flow
Improved Range of Motion
