IASTM
What is IASTM Manual Therapy
IASTM, or Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, is a type of manual therapy that uses special instruments to help assess and treat soft tissue injuries. IASTM can be used to help remodel scar tissue, increase blood flow, and reduce inflammation, and pain.
The Benefits of IASTM:
IASTM can be used to treat a variety of injuries, including those that are acute or
chronic. IASTM can be an effective treatment for pain, inflammation, and scar tissue. It can also help to improve the range of motion, and reduce stiffness and muscle soreness.
Tools:
There are a variety of different instruments that can be used for IASTM, but they all have a few things in common. They are all designed to provide a deep, targeted massage that can reach the deeper layers of soft tissue. The instruments are also designed to create micro-trauma to the tissue, which can help promote the healing process. The most common brand are the Graston technique tools. These are typically made of medical grade stainless steel.
A similar form to Grastons instruments are Gua Sha tools. Gua Sha is an ancient East Asian method that makes use of any smooth edge, such as buffalo horn or a stone. The theory is based on promoting blood production and improving the dissemination of fluids. Graston
Technique makes use of 6 specially designed stainless steel instruments with beveled edges for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment of tissues.
IASTM is usually performed by a licensed physical therapist who will select the correct instrument to target the area of concern. The therapist will use a variety of different techniques depending on your injury. IASTM is usually performed as part of a larger treatment plan that may also include other modalities such as stretching and exercises. However IASTM is a technique that can be performed independently at home once an individual has been trained with the proper technique and materials.