Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation or IASTM, is a non-invasive treatment option to resolve pain, tightness and musculoskeletal dysfunctions in the body. This treatment approach is a type of myofascial release used to focus on the facia in the body and allowing greater slide and glide to the tissues. Instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation utilizes a stainless steel instrument that detect and treat fascial restrictions, encourage rapid localization and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis, chronic inflammation, or degeneration.

Instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation instruments make it easier to detect and treat fascial dysfunction. They magnify the abnormalities (scars, restrictions and adhesions) in the fascia and make it easier to locate the area to treat. Using a tool focuses the force through an area smaller than your finger with less friction which allows a more efficient treatment. The goal is to trigger an inflammatory healing response. This will stimulate the production of new collagen and tissue repair.
There are many different types of IASTM out there, for example Graston, FAKTR, hawkgrips, etc all of them base their concepts on identifying adhesions/soft tissue dysfunction and regenerates healthy soft tissues (muscles, tendons, etc.) by eliminating or reducing unwanted scar tissue that may be causing pain or movement restrictions. IASTM treatment is highly effective for restoring movement and reducing pain from soft tissue injury/dysfunction, and IASTM even works when other approaches routinely fail.