Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is the use of specially designed tools to help treat soft tissue dysfunction or injuries. These tools help heighten the therapist’s treatment of soft tissue injuries. Some common brands of IASTM tools are HawkGrips® and Graston® Technique, both of which are used by therapists at Aligned Orthopedic & Sports Therapy.
Anyone with soft tissue conditions, injuries or pain can benefit from IASTM. Some common diagnoses that benefit from IASTM include:
Talk to your therapist to see if your condition would benefit from IASTM and if you are a good candidate for IASTM. Anyone with a soft tissue injury or who has excessive scar tissue, limited motion, pain during motion, motor control issues or muscle recruitment issues can benefit from IASTM.
IASTM tools come in various shapes that your therapist can use to target your specific area of dysfunction. This treatment is non-invasive, and your therapist will use these tools to help remodel the soft tissue in the exact area needed. IASTM targets tissues in areas such as:
You can receive IASTM treatment for large muscle groups or more specific spots. Your physical therapist will use different pressures, angles and tools to focus on the involved soft tissue layers bothering you most.
IASTM offers many benefits for patients, including:
IASTM can treat many soft tissue conditions and injuries:
