As IASTM tools continue to grow in popularity, they're becoming a modern approach for physiotherapists to treat sports injuries and address muscle pain. But, what makes this technique so special and how effective is it? Let's take a deep dive.
What is IASTM?
IASTM is short for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. It is a therapeutic technique used to treat fascial dysfunction, which may be caused by chronic inflammation or collagen degeneration. These conditions often result from muscle injuries or blunt trauma that reduce the quality and organization of collagen fibers.
When this occurs, the connective tissue can lose its elasticity, causing the fascia to become restricted and adhesive. Over time, these restrictions may develop into what is commonly referred to as scar tissue. Practitioners use IASTM tools to target affected areas in order to loosen tissue, reduce pain, and improve mobility and range of motion.
As a result, IASTM delivers a deeper and more targeted form of soft tissue treatment. With a variety of tool shapes and edges available, practitioners can effectively address both large and precise areas while also reducing strain on their hands and wrists.
How does the IASTM tool work?
To reduce muscle pain and promote tissue recovery, IASTM focuses on breaking down scar tissue and fascial adhesions while increasing blood flow to the affected area. Improved circulation helps stimulate the body’s natural healing process at the cellular level.
Using a stainless steel IASTM tool, practitioners apply controlled pressure with techniques such as scanning, pinching, pulling, and scraping. These methods help release restricted tissue, restore mobility, and improve overall tissue quality, which in turn supports faster and more effective recovery.
What kind of injuries that IASTM / Graston technique address?
According to the studies, IASTM is most effective for soft tissue related pain/injuries and limited movement including:
- Neck and upper back muscle pain
- Shoulder pain and stiffness
- Elbow tendinopathies (tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
- Wrist and forearm tendinitis
- Low back muscle pain
- Hip and thigh muscle tightness
- Knee pain related to tendon or soft-tissue irritation
- Ankle and foot soft-tissue pain
- Muscle stiffness and reduced flexibility
Recommended IASTM Tools:
| IASTM Tool Bird shaped with 3 holes |
$89.00 | Can be used on the arms , legs, shoulders and tendons |
|
IASTM Tools Set No.1, With Large Handle Bar |
$450.00 | The bundle contains different shapes of IASTM tools that can be applied on every part of body |
|
IASTM Scraping Tool (G Shape) |
$85.00 | Can be used on smaller areas, such as arm, shoulders, legs and tendons. |
|
IASTM Tools Set No.4 All-in-One Bundle Tool (Set of 5) |
$299 |
The bundle contains different shapes of IASTM tools that can be applied in every part of body |
|
IASTM Tool Handle Bar with Round Edges AISI 304 Stainless Steel |
$129.00 | Can be used on larger areas of body, such as the back and legs |
To explore more about IASTM and our range at Lierre, discover it here.