Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
This week on our blog we’d like to discuss another specific tool used by our therapists, known as instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, or IASTM for short. IASTM tools are utilized by many professionals, including physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, and athletic trainers. They look similar to a small scraping tool, and come in various shapes and sizes. It should be mentioned that IASTM tools are made by many brands, and while all are not made with the same quality, shape, or size, their intentions are all the same.
IASTM tools are used on the top layer of musculoskeletal tissue, known as fascia. Fascia covers our entire body, almost like a large thin web holding all of your muscles, organs, and bones in place. When fascia gets tight, it can create pain and discomfort. IASTM tools can be used to release the fascia and muscle tension and alleviate this pain and discomfort. There are specific IASTM tools for each region of the body, including the back, shoulders, hips, knees, wrists, ankles, and feet. They can also be used over scar tissue to break up the adhesions built up underneath the skin that can limit an area’s range of motion or flexibility.
IASTM tools are utilized by our clinicians at our including Foothill Ranch Physical Therapy, Lake Forest Physical Therapy, and Placentia Physical Therapy locations. When used in conjunction with other manual therapy techniques and other types of modalities, they can create a world of difference for patients’ injuries. IASTM tools can be used to treat plantar fasciitis, low back pain, achilles tendonitis, golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, hamstring pain, and a myriad of other injuries and conditions. The vast majority of professional sports teams utilize IASTM tools, so why not you?! If you are interested in implementing IASTM tools into your physical therapy treatment, please inform your treating therapist so they can determine if IASTM is appropriate for your condition.
If you are interested in attending a physical therapy clinic that utilizes Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization tools, then you’ve found the right place! Give us a call today to schedule your first (or next) appointment. For more information about the other cutting-edge techniques and equipment we utilize at OC Sports & Rehab, we invite you to check out the services tab on our website. For our new and existing patients alike, we look forward to seeing you soon!