Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization is a popular treatment technique used by physical therapists due to its ability to treat a multitude of conditions. The treatment is non-invasive and uses uniquely designed  stainless steel instruments  to break down scar tissue and promote healing. Similar to how a comb brushes out the knots in hair, the instruments are used to smooth out soft tissue abnormalities, improving range of motion and decreasing pain.

How does it work?

Instruments such as Hawk Grip brand tools used here at Rutherford Physical Therapy effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. The design of these instruments provides our therapists with the ability to locate restrictions and allows the therapist to treat the affected area with the appropriate amount of pressure.

The introduction of soft tissue mobilization causes the stimulation of local inflammatory response. The microtrauma initiates reabsorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities resulting in remodeling of affected structures. Adhesions within the soft tissue which may have developed as a result of surgery, immobilization, repeated strain or other mechanisms, are broken down allowing full functional restoration to occur.

Reasons for IASTM treatment:

Medial Epicondylitis ,   Lateral Epicondylitis

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Neck Pain

Plantar Fascitis

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

Patellar Tendinitis

Tibialis Posterior Tendinitis

Heel Pain /Achilles Tendinitis

DeQuervain’s Syndrome

Post-Surgical and Traumatic Scars

Myofascial Pain and Restrictions

Musculoskeletal Imbalances

Chronic Joint Swelling Associated with Sprains/Strains

Ligament Sprains

Muscle Strains

Non-Acute   Bursitis

RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)

Back Pain

Trigger Finger

Hip Pain (Replacements)

IT Band Syndrome

Shin Splints

Chronic Ankle Sprains

Acute Ankle Sprains (Advanced Technique)

Scars (Surgical, Traumatic)

At Rutherford Physical Therapy, LLC, our goal is to help reduce your pain, improve your mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. Every member of our team is dedicated to your health and wellbeing, and we go out of our way to maintain a comfortable, inviting facility for physical therapy. Call us today for an appointment.

Research reference: Physio-pedia.com