Menu
IASTM
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a manual physical therapy technique used to reduce pain and improve movement. It involves using specialized plastic or metal tools to gently glide along the skin and soft tissue in targeted areas.
At iMotion Physical Therapy, IASTM may be recommended as one part of your personalized plan of care.
What is IASTM used for?
IASTM may be used to address soft tissue restrictions and pain associated with a variety of conditions, including:
- neck and back pain
- muscle tightness and myofascial restrictions
- tendon irritation (including Achilles, patellar, and rotator cuff tendonitis)
- plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- tennis or golfer’s elbow
- IT band syndrome
- muscle strains and ligament sprains
- post-surgical or traumatic scar tissue restrictions
IASTM may also be used for other overuse injuries and movement-related pain, depending on your symptoms and goals.
How can IASTM help?
Most hands-on physical therapy techniques are performed using the therapist’s hands, but instruments can offer additional benefits. IASTM tools can help identify and address areas of soft tissue tightness and restriction with added precision.
With certain levels of pressure applied to muscles, tendons, or ligaments, IASTM may trigger a mild inflammatory response. While that may sound counterintuitive, this response can support the body’s natural healing process.
IASTM may also help improve mobility in areas affected by adhesions or scar tissue that can develop after surgery, injury, repetitive use, or immobilization.
What can I expect with IASTM?
During IASTM, a specialized tool is used over the target area. You may feel pressure or a scraping sensation in areas of tightness. The technique can be adjusted based on your comfort and response.
It is also common to experience temporary redness, tenderness, or mild soreness after treatment.
How will I know if IASTM is helping?
IASTM has been shown to help support improvements such as:
- reduced pain with movement
- improved muscle recruitment
- increased range of motion
- improved motor control
Progress is monitored over time to determine what is most helpful for your recovery.
IASTM is one part of your plan of care
IASTM is one tool that may be used alongside treatments such as:
- mobility and strengthening exercises
- movement training
- patient education
- hands-on therapy (when appropriate)
IASTM is often followed by exercise or movement training to help carry improvements into daily activity.
Your plan is tailored to your needs and designed to help you move better and feel more confident over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
IASTM stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, a technique that uses specialized tools to treat soft tissue restrictions.
IASTM can feel intense in areas of tightness, but it should be tolerable. Pressure and technique can be adjusted based on your comfort.
IASTM may be used for a wide range of conditions, including tendonitis, muscle strains, sprains, plantar fasciitis, scar tissue restrictions, and pain related to soft tissue tightness.
The number of sessions varies depending on your condition and goals. Your plan of care will be based on your evaluation and response to treatment.
