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