Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a specialized manual therapy technique that uses precise, ergonomic tools to reduce pain, relax muscle tension and break up scar tissue. At Physical Therapy Associates we use IASTM to help patients get mobile, recover faster and feel better. This targets areas of muscle tension and fascia, deeper than traditional massage alone.
What is IASTM?
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a specialized manual therapy technique to promote healing and reduce pain in soft tissue injuries. This involves using ergonomic tools to break up adhesions and scar tissue, increase blood flow and soft tissue mobilization. Based on the principles of James Cyriax’s cross-friction massage, IASTM is a skilled myofascial technique to detect and treat soft tissue disorders. It has been shown to be effective for soft tissue injuries, scar tissue and chronic pain, making it a valuable tool in physical therapy.
What Does IASTM Do?
IASTM applies controlled pressure with specialized tools to break up adhesions, scar tissue and other restrictions in the muscles and fascia. This:
Breaks Down Scar Tissue: The tools release scar tissue, increases soft tissue elasticity and mobility.
Increases Blood Flow: The technique increases blood flow to the soft tissue structure, reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Increases Range of Motion: By releasing tension and adhesions IASTM increases joint mobility and reduces stiffness.
IASTM Benefits
IASTM benefits patients with various soft tissue issues. These include:
Relieves Pain and Inflammation: By treating soft tissue injuries IASTM reduces pain and inflammation.
Breaking Up Adhesions and Scar Tissue: The technique mobilizes soft tissue by breaking up scar tissue and adhesions that limit movement.
Increasing Blood Flow: Increased blood flow to the soft tissue structure reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Increasing Range of Motion: By reducing stiffness and releasing tension IASTM increases joint mobility.
Reducing Muscle Spasms: The technique reduces muscle spasms and promotes relaxation.
Supports Natural Healing: IASTM supports the body’s natural healing process, a holistic and non-invasive treatment.
This non invasive treatment can be used in conjunction with other physical therapy modalities, no surgery or medication required.
IASTM Indications
IASTM is used to treat:
Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains and other soft tissue injuries.
Scar Tissue and Adhesions: Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions that limit mobility.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation: Relieves chronic pain and reduces inflammation.
Muscle Spasms and Tension: Relieves muscle spasms and reduces tension.
Joint Pain and Stiffness: Increases joint mobility and reduces stiffness.
Tendinitis and Bursitis: Treats tendinitis and bursitis.
Plantar Fasciitis: Relieves plantar fasciitis.
IASTM is versatile and can be used in conjunction with other physical therapy modalities like exercise and manual therapy to provide full care.
Precautions and Contraindications
While IASTM is safe, there are situations where it is contraindicated:
Active Infection or Inflammation: Do not use IASTM in areas with active infection or inflammation.
Open Wounds or Skin Lesions: Do not IASTM on open wounds or skin lesions.
Recent Surgery or Trauma: Do not treat areas that have recently had surgery or trauma.
Cancer or Tumors: Do not IASTM on areas with cancer or tumors.
Pregnancy or Breastfeeding: Use with caution and consult with a healthcare provider before IASTM during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Patients with bleeding disorders or taking anticoagulant medication should use caution. Patients with pacemakers or other implantable devices should consult with their healthcare provider before IASTM treatment.
Does it really work?
The Graston Technique, a specific type of IASTM, has clinical studies and patient outcomes to back it up. The Graston Technique along with other methods like fascial abrasion technique has clinical studies and patient outcomes to back it up. This technique reduces pain, breaks up scar tissue and increases mobility. Studies and clinical experience shows Graston is effective for chronic pain, soft tissue injuries and post surgical recovery. By using precise instruments and targeted technique Graston can reduce recovery time and improve function, making it a good option for many patients.
What instrument is used to hold soft tissues?
IASTM uses specially designed tools, typically made of high quality stainless steel, to target soft tissues, a technique called augmented soft tissue mobilization. These ergonomic instruments have smooth, curved edges that allow our therapists to apply precise pressure and feel for scar tissue or adhesions. The shape and material of the tools allows our therapists to hold, stretch and release soft tissues in ways that can’t be done with the hands alone. This maximizes the therapeutic effect and makes the treatment comfortable for the patient.
Instrument Hygiene and Safe Treatment
Hygiene and safety is key during IASTM treatment. Instruments should be cleaned and disinfected after each use. An intermediate level disinfectant is recommended followed by rinsing with soap and water. Clinicians should wear gloves and other personal protective equipment (PPE) during treatment.
The safe treatment sequence for IASTM is:
Clean Hands: Clinicians should clean their hands before and after treatment.
Body Region Inspection: Inspect the treatment area before treatment.
Patient Skin Cleaning: Clean the patient’s skin at the treatment site.
Treatment: IASTM with lubricant and PPE.
Patient Status Monitoring: Monitor the patient during treatment.
Re-inspection and Cleaning: Re-inspect and clean the body region after treatment.
By following these steps clinicians can make IASTM safe and effective for their patients.
What’s the difference between Graston and IASTM?
Both Graston and IASTM are used for soft tissue treatment but there is a difference:
Graston Technique: A specific type of IASTM that uses patented tools and techniques. Graston is often a standardized approach and is used in sports medicine and physical therapy.
IASTM: Refers to a broader range of instrument assisted techniques that may include Graston or other similar methods. IASTM includes various tools and approaches so therapists can tailor treatment to the individual.
Both Graston and general IASTM can be effective and the choice between them depends on the patient’s condition and the therapist’s expertise.
Why choose us for IASTM?
At Physical Therapy Associates our physical therapists are trained in the latest IASTM techniques including the Graston Technique to provide safe and effective treatment for each patient. We know how to use these tools to target the problem areas and get lasting results. Whether you have chronic pain, post surgical, or sports injury our experienced therapists will guide you to improved mobility and a pain free life. Contact us today to learn more about IASTM or to book an appointment.