Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

Many therapists at Team Rehab are certified in a specialized form of therapy called Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM). There are different tools that can be used for this type of therapy, such as Astym®, Graston Technique®, and Hawk Grips®. These are the names of the tools but are often referred to as the type of treatment. This therapy works fast to heal problems caused by scarring or tissues (muscle, ligament, tendon, or skin) that have not been able to heal properly. Team Rehab Therapists have had great success treating diagnoses like tennis elbow, golfers elbow, muscle strains, Achilles tendinitis and post-surgical scarring with IASTM. It can be performed to most any area of the body. IASTM is an extension of manual therapy. The physical therapist uses a set of specially designed tools to transfer pressure to the soft tissue, particularly on and around the area of the problem, and a specifically trained protocol is performed in a particular sequence that is unique to the IASTM technique. This treatment stimulates a healing response in muscle, tendon, and scars. Treatment usually takes 8-10 visits. Movement is encouraged and proper stretching activities are recommended for the areas to heal properly. IASTM delivers long-term results with short-term therapy and does not just treat the symptoms or hide a problem with a temporary solution. Instead, the IASTM process stimulates the body to regenerate healthy tissue while staying active.