Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, or simply IASTM, is an innovative form of soft tissue therapy used in the treatment of both acute and chronic injuries. IASTM is becoming increasingly popular due to its efficiency while remaining a safe and non-invasive form of treatment. The technique is thought to be a modern evolution of a technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine called Gua Sha. While Gua Sha treatments typically focus on the balancing of energy flow through the body, IASTM is used to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions involving the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia.
IASTM uses uniquely designed hand held tools to specifically detect areas exhibiting fascial adhesions and/or chronic inflammation. Adhesions can develop in the soft tissues as a result of surgery, acute injury, immobilization, repetitive strain or postural strain. Once these areas are identified, the tools are then used to flush out inflammation and/or break down scar tissue and fascial adhesions. This results in stimulating the body’s natural healing response, allowing for a faster and more functional recovery. IASTM is typically used in conjunction with other manual therapies such as joint mobilization and therapeutic exercise to aid in your optimal recovery.
Common uses include:
- Neck and Back Pain
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
- Golfers Elbow
- Tennis Elbow
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Trigger Finger
- IT Band Syndrome
- Patellar Tendinitis
- Shin Splints
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Post-Surgical and Traumatic Scars
- Myofascial Pain and Restrictions
Other Chiropractic Services
- Myofascial Release
- Kinesiology Taping
- Contemporary Medical Acupuncture
- Chiropractic Joint Manipulation/Adjustment
How often should I come?
A series of sessions are generally needed to achieve resolution/improvement of the problem and the frequency depends on the individual and your particular health condition. Once the initial complaint is addressed, maintenance sessions are generally recommended. Dr. Jocelyn Hayes, D.C. will work with you to address all issues and to develop a protocol that you are comfortable with.
To Book an appointment with Dr. Hayes, D.C. please use our online booking link to see how Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization can help you.
564-572 Weber Street North, Unit 3A Waterloo, Ontario N2L5C6
