IASTM
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a skilled myofascial intervention that includes the use of specialized tools to manipulate the skin, myofascia, muscles, and tendons.
How does it work?
Instruments effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. The ergonomic design of these instruments provides the clinician with the ability to locate restrictions and allows the clinician to treat the affected area with the appropriate amount of pressure.
The introduction of controlled microtrauma to affected soft tissue structure causes the stimulation of local inflammatory response. Microtrauma initiates reabsorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities resulting in Remodeling of affected soft tissue structures. Adhesions within the soft tissue which may have developed as a result of surgery, immobilization, repeated strain or other mechanisms, are broken down allowing full functional restoration to occur
Clinical Benefits:
Studies have also showed clinical benefits of IASTM showing improvements in range of motion, strength and pain perception following treatment. Anyone with soft-tissue pain, injuries or conditions can benefit from IASTM. These often include athletes, warehouse workers or others who perform a repeated motion many times per day. Some of the many conditions we can treat with IASTM include:
- Excessive scar tissue
- Forms of tendinitis or tendinopathy, including Achilles tendinitis, golfer’s and tennis elbow
- Muscle and ligament strains
- Running injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and iliotibial band syndrome (IT band)
However, some patients are not good candidates for IASTM. If you have a degenerative joint condition, such as arthritis, IASTM may help relieve pain in the tissues surrounding the joint but not in the joint itself.
If you are interested in Knowing more about treatment options please Contact Shiva Physical Therapy .