Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) has become increasingly popular in rehabilitation and sports medicine. Using specially designed tools to treat soft tissue dysfunction, IASTM offers a targeted approach to addressing scar tissue, fascial restrictions, and chronic muscle problems. At M.O. Therapy in Markham, we incorporate IASTM techniques into comprehensive treatment plans.
What Is IASTM?
Definition
IASTM involves using ergonomically designed instruments to detect and treat soft tissue dysfunction, including scar tissue, fascial restrictions, and chronic muscle problems.
Common Brand Names
Recognized Systems:
- Graston Technique® (most well-known)
- ASTYM®
- HawkGrips®
- Rocktape FMT
- Various generic tools
The Instruments
Design Features:
- Beveled edges for treatment
- Various shapes and sizes
- Stainless steel common
- Some are plastic or titanium
- Contoured to body areas
How IASTM Works
Proposed Mechanisms
Tissue Effects:
- Mechanical stimulation of tissue
- Breaks up adhesions and scar tissue
- Increases blood flow
- Stimulates healing response
- Initiates tissue remodeling
Detection:
- Tools amplify tissue texture
- Practitioner feels abnormalities
- Identifies areas of restriction
- Guides treatment focus
The Healing Response
Process:
- Controlled microtrauma to tissue
- Inflammatory response initiated
- Fibroblast activation
- New collagen production
- Tissue remodeling occurs
Conditions Treated
Musculoskeletal Issues
Common Applications:
- Chronic tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- IT band syndrome
- Tennis/golfer's elbow
- Rotator cuff issues
- Achilles problems
- Patellar tendinopathy
Scar Tissue
Post-Injury/Surgery:
- Surgical scars
- Muscle tears (healed)
- Ligament injuries
- Fascial adhesions
- Chronic strain patterns
Other Conditions
May Help:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Chronic muscle tension
- Post-fracture stiffness
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
What to Expect
Assessment
Before Treatment:
- Evaluation of condition
- Identification of restrictions
- Treatment plan discussion
- Explanation of technique
- Informed consent
During Treatment
The Process:
- Skin prepared (emollient applied)
- Instrument glided over tissue
- Practitioner adjusts pressure
- Areas of restriction identified
- Treatment applied to problem areas
- Duration: 5-10 minutes per area
Sensations:
- Scraping feeling
- May be uncomfortable
- Should be tolerable
- Communication important
- Some redness normal
After Treatment
Common Responses:
- Redness in treated area (petechiae)
- Minor bruising possible
- Temporary soreness
- Improved movement often
- Effects build over sessions
Post-Treatment:
- Ice if significant redness
- Continue normal activities
- Exercise as prescribed
- Hydrate well
Treatment Protocol
Typical Course
Standard Approach:
- 1-2 times per week
- 4-8 treatments typical
- Combined with exercise
- Progress monitored
Combined Treatment
IASTM Works Best With:
- Stretching exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Other manual therapy
- Activity modification
- Comprehensive rehabilitation
Evidence and Effectiveness
Research Findings
Studies Suggest:
- Improved range of motion
- Reduced pain
- Enhanced tissue healing
- Beneficial for tendinopathy
- Best when combined with exercise
Limitations:
- More research needed
- Comparative studies limited
- Individual responses vary
- Part of comprehensive care
Clinical Experience
Practitioners Report:
- Patient satisfaction
- Improved outcomes
- Valuable assessment tool
- Enhances treatment options
IASTM vs. Other Treatments
IASTM vs. Massage
IASTM:
- Instrument-based
- More targeted pressure
- Detects subtle restrictions
- May reach deeper tissue
Massage:
- Hands-on approach
- Broader coverage
- Various techniques available
- Relaxation component
IASTM vs. Dry Needling
IASTM:
- Surface/superficial focus
- Non-invasive
- Addresses fascia and scar tissue
- No needles
Dry Needling:
- Penetrates tissue
- Targets trigger points
- Different mechanism
- Minimal equipment
Complementary Use
Often Combined:
- Different effects
- Addresses various tissues
- Comprehensive approach
- Enhanced outcomes
Safety Considerations
Side Effects
Common (Normal):
- Redness (petechiae)
- Minor bruising
- Temporary soreness
- Sensitivity in area
Uncommon:
- Significant bruising
- Prolonged soreness
- Skin irritation
- Adverse reaction
Contraindications
Avoid IASTM:
- Open wounds
- Unhealed fractures
- Thrombophlebitis
- Anticoagulant therapy
- Skin conditions
- Infection
- Malignancy
- Varicose veins
- Compromised tissue integrity
Precautions
Use Caution:
- Acute inflammation
- Fragile skin
- Sensitivity to pressure
- Previous adverse reaction
- Certain medical conditions
Choosing a Practitioner
Qualifications
Look For:
- Licensed healthcare professional
- Certified in IASTM technique
- Proper training completed
- Experience with your condition
- Part of treatment plan
Questions to Ask
- What certification do you have?
- How many treatments might I need?
- What other treatments will you combine?
- What results can I expect?
IASTM at M.O. Therapy
Our Approach
Integration:
- Part of comprehensive care
- Combined with exercise
- Tailored to your needs
- Progress monitored
Our Training
Qualified Practitioners:
- Certified in techniques
- Ongoing education
- Evidence-based approach
- Patient-centered care
What We Treat
Common Conditions:
- Chronic tendon problems
- Scar tissue restrictions
- Fascial adhesions
- Sports injuries
- Overuse conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IASTM hurt? IASTM can be uncomfortable but should be tolerable. Pressure is adjusted based on your feedback. Some soreness after treatment is normal.
Why does my skin turn red after treatment? Redness (petechiae) is a normal response indicating increased blood flow to the area. It typically fades within 24-48 hours.
How many treatments will I need? Most conditions respond within 4-8 treatments, though this varies by condition and individual. Your practitioner will reassess and adjust as needed.
Can IASTM make my condition worse? When performed correctly on appropriate conditions, IASTM is safe. Temporary soreness is normal. Significant worsening should be reported to your practitioner.
Is IASTM the same as Graston Technique? Graston Technique is a specific branded IASTM system. IASTM is the general category that includes Graston and other instrument-assisted approaches.
Experience IASTM
If you're dealing with chronic soft tissue problems, scar tissue, or fascial restrictions, IASTM may help. Contact M.O. Therapy in Markham for an assessment.
Contact Us:
- Call (905) 201-5827
- Book online
- Direct billing available
Discover if instrument-assisted treatment is right for your condition.