Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation (IASTM) is a form of therapy that uses specially designed surgical stainless steel tools to decrease pain and improve range of motion and function more efficiently. 

Why is IASTM so efficient?

Sports chiropractor in Bellingham performing muscle relaxation therapy using an instrument (known as IASTM) on the patients forearm in a way often used to treat painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis or tarsal tunnel syndrome.

The tool, in the hands of a skilled professional, allows the provider to get an increased vibratory sensation in the tissues, alerting us to potential scar tissue or tight fascial bands that require more attention. Then we use the tool in the same way we would use our hands for manual therapy, applying pressure and directional force through to improve movement and function while decreasing your pain and inflammation.

Common Conditions Treated By IASTM

IASTM works to produce a healing response from the body to the affected area. This is accomplished through the breakdown of the capillary beds inducing nutrition to the tissues of the injured area. 

A secondary effect occurs at the site of scar tissue formation. Scar tissue is the body’s way of healing injured tissue. However, scar tissue is not as pliable, or contractile as normal tissue. Under a microscope, scar tissue appears as a plate of cooked spaghetti, whereas normal tissue appears as a box of uncooked spaghetti. 

With the pressure of the tools, mechanical changes at the cellular level can and do occur in order to normalize scar tissue as much as possible.

IASTM is a treatment protocol trusted across conservative care disciplines including chiropractors, occupational and physical therapists, and athletic trainers.

Stiff? Stuck? Sore? Tired? All of the above? Schedule an appointment today and get back to moving and feeling like yourself again!