IASTM

Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization is a manual technique your physical therapist can perform using a plastic or metal tool or “blade.” Other forms of IASTM including cupping and Hypervolt vibratory tools. Your therapist can perform IASTM using a variety of pressures and speeds to help with healing and inflammation, facilitate a contraction (turn a muscle on), or inhibit a muscle (turn a muscle off).

Instruments effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. (Fascia is a fancy word for connective tissue that is throughout the body). The design of these instruments provides the therapist with the ability to find damaged areas and allows the therapist to treat the area with the appropriate amount of pressure.

The introduction of controlled small tissue damage to the affected muscles, tendons and/or ligaments causes a mild inflammatory response. This starts the natural process of healing. Adhesions(scars) within the tissues which may have developed as a result of surgery, immobilization, repeated strain or other mechanisms, are broken down allowing full functional restoration to occur.

Indications

• Limited motion
• pain during motion
• motor control issues
• Muscle recruitment issues