What is IASTM Therapy?
If you’re in the world of sports, performance, or rehab - you have probably heard the term “IASTM.” But what is it, exactly? IASTM stands for “Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization,” a technique that uses specialized tools to address and mobilize soft tissue structures– primarily muscles, tendons, and fascia.
How Does IASTM Therapy Work?
There are several mechanisms of action that can make IASTM therapy an effective choice when addressing pain, tightness, or injury. One key effect of using IASTM is it can create a neurophysiological response. This means that using an instrument on an injured or painful site provides a new stimulus that can help you escape a negative pain-fear-avoidance cycle.
Think about when you stub your toe– you may instinctively reach to grab for your toe in order to decrease the pain you are experiencing. IASTM therapy works in a similar way.
Using IASTM is also a way to apply a mechanical load, or physical stress to a tissue. Many times, “stress” can be good, and some structures need it to heal properly. It’s a complex physiological process, but essentially this stress can help your tissue “re-organize,” which can be especially effective to jump start healing in instances of chronic or long-lasting pain and muscle injuries or tendonitis.
IASTM for Muscle Injuries and Post-Surgery Recovery
One of the major IASTM benefits is its ability to aid in recovery after a long period of immobilization, usually following a major injury or surgery. In these cases, clinicians use instruments to help stimulate damaged or poorly healed tissue with the goal of improving range of motion.
A common phrase associated with this is “breaking up scar tissue,” and IASTM is usually used in combination with exercise to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and accelerate recovery.
IASTM for Tendonitis and Chronic Pain Relief
Another powerful application of IASTM therapy is in treating tendonitis– a condition caused by inflammation and microtears in the tendons. By applying targeted pressure, IASTM helps stimulate blood flow and promote healing in overused or injured tendons.
For those dealing with chronic tendonitis, such as tennis elbow or Achilles tendonitis, IASTM for tendonitis offers an effective solution to manage pain and restore mobility. Many clinicians incorporate it into their treatment plans to reduce inflammation and encourage proper tissue healing.
Additional IASTM Benefits: Helping Clinicians Help Themselves
Outside of helping their patients and clients, many clinicians use instruments to help themselves, which is a huge benefit. Using an instrument allows practitioners to apply force with greater precision while reducing strain on their hands. This helps prevent overuse injuries in therapists who perform manual therapy daily.
IASTM tools act as an extension of the clinician’s hands, allowing for more efficient treatment without excessive strain. The instruments are designed with multiple edges and angles, making it easier to treat different body types and various soft tissue structures. Whether working on larger muscle groups or smaller, more intricate areas, the variety of treatment edges helps clinicians adjust their technique based on the patient’s needs.
Additionally, individuals who take their recovery seriously can be trained to use IASTM therapy at home with proper guidance.
IASTM Resources
If you are interested in learning more about IASTM and how it works, check out these on-demand courses. For clinicians looking to add another skill to their set, check out these IASTM certification courses.
*There are many potential effects that IASTM can have that will vary based on the injury, how the tools are applied, and the person being treated. Keep in mind that a licensed clinical professional would choose to use IASTM after a thorough evaluation and as part of a larger treatment plan.*