IASTM can help reduce pain, improve movement

As you may already know, participating in physical therapy can help you move better and feel better if you are recovering from an injury or illness.

Physical Therapists (PT) can assess your condition(s) and use various treatments and techniques as part of a program designed specifically for you. Treatments can include massage and myofascial release of tissues. One type of massage used is known as instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization or IASTM.

This manual form of therapy uses stainless steel tools or instruments that the PT can use to massage/scrape the skin gently to help improve soft tissue mobility in the body. The therapy is designed to help the provider identify areas of tightness or restriction, and attempt to break up scar tissue or myofascial restrictions that can cause pain, injury, or movement loss.

Many patients with the following issues could be good candidates for IASTM:

• ligament sprains
• limited mobility or loss of range of motion
• pain with motion
• plantar fasciitis
• scar tissue from surgery or trauma
• tendonitis and tendinopathy

Benefits of tool assisted therapy can include:

• decreased pain
• decreased scar tissue formation
• improved range of motion
• improved tissue extensibility

If you’re struggling with muscle tightness, scar tissue, or perhaps myofascial restrictions, talk with your PT to see how they could help. Perhaps they will use IASTM during your treatment to help you get back to your normal active lifestyle.

Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is one of various treatment options that might be part of your care when you see a physical therapist at Campbell County Health Rehabilitation Services in Gillette, Wyoming. Our compassionate and experienced staff helps each patient, in a team-oriented atmosphere, reach their goals. Call 307.688.8000 to make an appointment, or visit www.cchwyo.org/rehab to learn more.