What is IASTM?
By Andrew Symonds SPT
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, or IASTM, is a skilled intervention that targets the fascia that surrounds muscles of the body. PTs use stainless steel tools to implement this soft tissue mobilization technique, and it can be used on a wide variety of locations in the body. Some of the common conditions it can be used for are rotator cuff tendinitis, patellar tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, muscle strains, and back pain. The use of these tools allows for greater penetration into the muscle when compared to soft tissue mobilization alone.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30761198/
How it works?
IASTM works by breaking up adhesions or tight spots in a muscle. The PT uses the tool to feel for these areas in a muscle or tendon, and then they will provide pressure using the tool to break up the scar tissue or adhesions in a portion of the muscle. When the pressure is applied with the tool, it removes the scar tissue, and initiates a healing response so that the body can reform portions of the muscle or tendon.
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Benefits
IASTM has been shown to be effective at improving ROM, reducing pain, and reducing the amount of scar tissue. In a study performed by Laudner et al collegiate baseball players had improved shoulder ROM after receiving IASTM treatments. Also, another study by Gamboa et al examined the ankle range of motion during squats after a week of IASTM treatments and PT exercises. The results showed improved range of motion in the group that received these treatments compared to the control group.
IASTM at CISM
Physical therapists at CISM can utilize IASTM techniques as part of treatment plans to help increase ROM and reduce pain. For more information on IASTM contact us at (719)-344-9497
References:
1. Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. Physiopedia. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.physio-pedia.com/Instrument_Assisted_Soft_Tissue_Mobilization.
Graston Archives. Sidekick Blog. November 29, 2018. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://blog.sidekicktool.com/tag/graston/.
Laudner K, Compton BD, McLoda TA, Walters CM. ACUTE EFFECTS OF INSTRUMENT ASSISTED SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION FOR IMPROVING POSTERIOR SHOULDER RANGE OF MOTION IN COLLEGIATE BASEBALL PLAYERS. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2014;9(1):1-7.
Gamboa AJ, Craft DR, Matos JA, Flink TS, Mokris RL. Functional Movement Analysis Before and After Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. Int J Exerc Sci. 2019;12(3):46-56.
