Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Understanding IASTM

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a modern manual therapy technique designed to diagnose and treat soft tissue dysfunctions. This technique involves the use of specially designed instruments that facilitate the application of controlled microtrauma to the soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and fascia. The primary goal of IASTM is to stimulate a localized inflammatory response, promoting increased blood flow and initiating the body’s natural healing processes. By breaking down scar tissue and adhesions within the soft tissue, IASTM can help restore normal function and mobility (Cheatham & Baker, 2016; Kim, Lee, & Lee, 2017).

The Integration of IASTM in Sports Osteopathy

At Prime Health Hub: Osteopathy Pain Clinic, we adopt a comprehensive and integrative approach to healthcare, particularly in sports osteopathy. Osteopathic treatments are founded on the principle that the body’s structure and function are intrinsically linked, and that the body possesses the inherent ability to heal itself when properly supported. By incorporating IASTM into our osteopathic treatments, we enhance the efficacy of our interventions, offering a robust solution to soft tissue dysfunctions and sports-related injuries (Sevier & Stegink-Jansen, 2015).

Benefits of Combining IASTM with Sports Osteopathy

Enhanced Diagnostic Accuracy

IASTM tools enable our osteopaths to detect areas of soft tissue restriction and dysfunction with greater precision. The tactile feedback provided by the instruments allows practitioners to identify irregularities such as fibrosis and scar tissue, which may not be as easily detectable through manual palpation alone. This enhanced diagnostic capability ensures that we can target our treatments more effectively, addressing specific areas of concern with precision (Mohr, Long, & Goss, 2014).

Improved Blood Flow and Healing

The microtrauma induced by IASTM stimulates a localized inflammatory response, which increases blood flow to the affected area. This enhanced circulation delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to the tissues, promoting faster healing and recovery. The inflammatory response also triggers the production of fibroblasts, which play a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration (Webb & Laskowski, 2018).

Superior Tissue Mobility

One of the key benefits of IASTM is its ability to break down scar tissue and adhesions that can restrict tissue mobility. By mechanically disrupting these fibrous structures, IASTM helps to restore normal tissue elasticity and flexibility. When combined with osteopathic techniques that address joint function and alignment, this leads to a significant improvement in overall mobility and function (Hammer & Pfefer, 2005).

Effective Pain Relief

The integration of IASTM with osteopathic techniques provides a powerful approach to pain relief. The mechanical effects of IASTM reduce muscle tension and alleviate pain by disrupting the pain-spasm cycle. Additionally, osteopathic techniques such as joint mobilization and myofascial release help to address the underlying biomechanical issues that contribute to pain. This comprehensive approach ensures that pain relief is both immediate and long-lasting (Markovic & Kumar, 2020).

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

By combining IASTM with osteopathy, we offer a holistic treatment that addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of musculoskeletal issues. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the patient’s condition are considered, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. Our treatments are tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring a personalized approach that optimizes results (Lewis et al., 2017).

How IASTM is Applied in Sports Osteopathy

During your treatment at Prime Health Hub: Osteopathy Pain Clinic, our skilled osteopaths will use IASTM tools to gently scrape and mobilize your soft tissues. This technique involves applying controlled pressure to the skin with the IASTM instruments, which helps to break down scar tissue and adhesions. The treatment is typically combined with other osteopathic techniques to address the structural and functional aspects of your condition.

Step-by-Step Process of IASTM Treatment:

Assessment: Our osteopaths will begin by conducting a thorough assessment of your condition. This may include a detailed medical history, physical examination, and palpation to identify areas of tissue restriction and dysfunction.
Application of IASTM Tools: Once the areas of concern have been identified, the osteopath will use the IASTM instruments to apply controlled pressure to the skin. The instruments are moved in specific patterns over the affected area, creating a mechanical disruption of the soft tissues (Lee et al., 2020).

Combination with Osteopathic Techniques: Following the IASTM treatment, our osteopaths will employ other manual techniques to further address the structural and functional aspects of your condition. This may include joint mobilization, myofascial release, and soft tissue manipulation.

Patient Education and Home Exercises: To support your recovery and enhance the effectiveness of the treatment, our osteopaths will provide you with education on self-care strategies and home exercises. These may include stretching, strengthening, and mobility exercises designed to maintain the improvements achieved during the treatment (Zhou et al., 2019).

Conditions Treated with IASTM and Sports Osteopathy

IASTM, when combined with osteopathic techniques, can effectively treat a wide range of sports-related musculoskeletal conditions. Some of the common conditions we treat include:

Chronic Pain

Sports Injuries

Post-Surgical Recovery

Repetitive Strain Injuries

Chronic Pain

Joint Dysfunction

Clinical Evidence Supporting IASTM in Sports Osteopathy

Scientists have studied IASTM and found that it really helps with pain and muscle problems, especially for athletes. Here are some studies that show how IASTM works:

Cheatham, S. W., & Baker, R. (2016). The efficacy of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 60(3), 200-211.
Kim, D. H., Lee, J. H., & Lee, Y. S. (2017). Effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on myofascial pain syndrome in elderly patients: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 29(6), 996-999.
Markovic, M., & Kumar, S. (2020). The effectiveness of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pain Medicine, 21(1), 183-195.
Mohr, K. J., Long, B. C., & Goss, D. L. (2014). Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization in healthy young adults: effects on lower extremity mobility and postural control. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 28(2), 420-426.
Sevier, T. L., & Stegink-Jansen, C. W. (2015). The effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on musculoskeletal injury: a systematic review. Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy, 45(2), 116-124.
Webb, C. N., & Laskowski, E. R. (2018). The effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on hamstring flexibility: a pilot study. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 27(2), 179-186.
Zhou, J., et al. (2019). Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for the management of myofascial pain in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 42(4), 265-272.
Lewis, G. K., et al. (2017). Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization for the treatment of tendinopathy: a systematic review. Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 35(3), 543-550.
Hammer, W. I., & Pfefer, M. T. (2005). Treatment of a case of subacute lumbar compartment syndrome using the Graston technique. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 28(3), e1-e7.
Lee, D. Y., et al. (2020). Comparison of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and foam rolling on passive knee extension and electromyographic activity. Journal of Athletic Training, 55(6), 568-576.

Feel Better with IASTM at Prime Health Hub: Osteopathy Pain Clinic

Our team of experienced osteopaths is dedicated to staying at the forefront of medical advancements, continually enhancing their skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care. By choosing Prime Health Hub, you are choosing a clinic that prioritizes your well-being and is committed to delivering effective, personalized treatment.

Vignesh N

I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. From the moment I walked in, the staff were welcoming and attentive. The osteopath took the time to listen to my concerns and provided a thorough assessment. The treatment was highly effective, and I noticed a significant improvement in my condition after just a few sessions. The clinic itself is clean, modern, and equipped with the latest technology, which made me feel confident in the care I was receiving. I also appreciated the clear communication regarding my treatment plan and the follow-up care recommendations.

Denise H

I can highly recommend both Dr Archie and Dr Avi. From muscular and nerve pain issues to more recently relieving the symptoms of Vertigo (BPPV), they have been an absolute blessing.

Arini Stamenkovic

So happy and greats therapy I have so Thank you Dr Avi.

Rod Butcher

As a 60+ semi retiree I had ongoing back seizures. I had tried various treatments some too aggressive for my aging back. I found Prime Health Hub’s Dr Avi’s Osteopathic treatment to be very effective. He sent me for scans (bulk billed) then created a plan from these scans to treat my back. He also developed an exercise plan once again suited to my age bracket as daily maintenance. I would highly recommend this practice.

Erica Duguid

Archie was thorough with familiarising herself with my health status and offered me a variety of modalities to match my needs. I have felt less congested in my sinuses and chest after the lymphatic drainage. She administered my treatments gently and with explanation of what was to happen. I have taken away some exercises that will aid my healing.

Kris Ryan

A highly knowledgeable and evidence based team. Thank you for your work in improving my chronic back condition.

Jaz

Dr Archana is wonderful. I was in extreme pain, unable to put weight on my left leg through a disc injury. Dr Archana was able to fit me in at short notice and immediately I felt a lot better following that first appointment. I have been seeing Dr Archana regularly since then. She is very gentle, compassionate and caring. She is also a very knowledgeable practitioner. Being a dentist myself I like to know details of anatomy and what’s happening behind the scenes and I found Dr Archana to be very well informed. I would thoroughly recommend this practice to anyone for pain or maintenance therapy. I have had chiropractic care in the past and I prefer the gentle more holistic approach that osteopathy provides. Thank you for you care. Jaz

Lynne Cutler

I was so pleased to find Dr Avi open on a Saturday as I was in a lot of pain in my lower back. No one else was open on Saturday. My pain was acute and has eased within one week to over 75% less. I’m nearly pain free.hooray. I am very impressed with this gentle man’s knowledge, wisdom and manipulation. Thank you so much for my healing. .

Jane Goodwin

Dr Avi has been treating me for ages, I wouldn't hesitate to refer him to anyone. He's very welcoming and knowledgeable, the times I have had to bring my kids with me, he's made that easy too. I tried a bunch of other physios and massage before finding Avi and it's been way better than anything else.

Noel Kapernick

My experience at Prime Health Hub was firstly, one of being carefully listened to as I described the condition that had taken me there. Secondly, there followed the most rigorous diagnostic examination I have ever experienced, I think. What made this particularly useful to me was the way in which everything was explained as it was being done: I'm doing this to assess ... This shows that ... And so on until a diagnosis had been made and again, explained clearly with visuals at times, so that I fully understood the explanation. From then on, the level of professional care I have received has been exceptional, again marked by careful, attentive listening, ongoing assessment and clear explanations. For me, knowing the what and the why of the treatment I am receiving is just as important as the treatment itself, and that, as I said, has been excellent. Noel.