Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
There are many names and techniques in regards to IASTM. To be all inclusive, we stick to IASTM. If you have ever heard of “scraping”, IASTM is what they are referring to. This technique uses a special blade with a very specifically crafted round/beveled edge in order to break up the top-most superficial layer of fascia which binds all of our muscles together. This fascia has a layer of fluid between itself and the muscle it wraps, and sometimes that fluid can get very viscous leaving you feeling stuck or restricted. With IASTM, we can mobilize that fascia, increase the flow of fluid and even break up the layers of fascia in order to re-lay down their matrix in the proper directions.
Goals Of IASTM
- Break down adhesions
- Increase range of motion
- Reduce pain
- Reduce inflammation
- Restore functionality