Benefits
- Non-invasive and drug-free
- Can be used on various soft tissue conditions
- Can be used alone or in combination with other treatments
- Reduces treatment time
- Enhances the efficiency of soft tissue therapy.
IASTM
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a skilled myofascial intervention used for soft-tissue treatment.
It is applied using instruments that are usually made of stainless steel with bevelled edges and contours that can conform to different body anatomical locations and allows for deeper penetration. It is used for the detection and treatment of soft tissue disorders.
Instruments effectively break down facial 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.
Effects
- Improved range of motion
- Pain relief
- Improved circulation
- Reduced muscle soreness
- Improved tissue mobility
- Improved scar tissue healing
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 because of surgery, immobilization, repeated strain or other mechanisms, are broken down, allowing full functional restoration to occur.
Conditions For Which IASTM is Usually Used
- Medial Epicondylitis, Lateral Epicondylitis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Neck Pain
- Plantar Fascitis
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
- Patellar Tendinitis
- Heel Pain/Achilles Tendinitis
- Post-Surgical and Traumatic Scars
- Myofascial Pain and Restrictions
- Muscle Strains
- Back Pain
- IT Band Syndrome
- Shin Splints
- Chronic Ankle Sprains
Contraindications
- Open wound (unhealed suture site)
- Unhealed fracture
- Thrombophlebitis
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Patient intolerance/hypersensitivity