Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Also known in its short form, IASTM, is a simple yet effective technique that manual therapists use to help their patients. IASTM refers to using a tool to assist with the manual mobilization of muscles and fascia. There has been an increase with clinicians such as chiropractors, massage therapists, and athletic therapists using these tools to enhance the rehabilitation process with their patients. IASTM does not replace the use of hands on therapy, but compliments it.
On the market today IASTM tools vary in technique, shape, size and material. This year I attended a Rock Blades seminar to learn how and when to correctly apply IASTM in my practice. I purchased a set of tools called Gua Sha that are made out of buffalo bone. What is so wonderful about these tools is that they come in different shapes and sizes, so that I can use them on all parts of the body and also on larger or smaller patients.
So why do practioners use these tools? What is so great about them? How do they help our patients? Clinical benefits of IASTM include improvements in soft tissue function and range of motion (from scar tissue), and a change in pain perception (reduction of pain), following treatment. It also can benefit the therapist, possibly preventing over-use injury to the hands (fingers and thumbs).
The primary focus of IASTM instrument is to break down fascial restrictions from scar tissue. Scar tissue is the body’s natural response to heal tissue and can occur in muscle, tendons and ligaments. When an injury occurs, scar tissue is laid down in a multi-directional, irregular pattern. This creates a weak point, where chance of re-injury can increase, no matter how strong you are. IASTM tools help reorganize the direction of fibers to make the tendon, muscle, or ligament stronger.
IASTM also appears to work by stimulating mechanical receptors to alter the pain signal to the brain thereby desensitizing the painful area. This stimulation of mechanoreceptors can inhibit nociceptors (transmit “danger” signals to the brain), from transmitting their signals to the brain. An example of this is when you accidently hit your elbow and you rub it to help decrease the pain, or make it feel better.
Manual therapists use their hands constantly with their patients. Over-use injuries can occur if therapists are not careful. IASTM tools allow therapists to give their hands a bit of a break with the same benefits.
In my practice to date, I have used these tools on a number of different patients all who had various injuries, with great results! If you are interested in learning more about instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization and how it can help you, I am always available for questions and inquiries.
Marina White
Certified Athletic Therapist