When you picture a massage, you probably envision an inviting room with a massage therapist’s skilled hands working away at your pain points. However, massage therapists can also utilize specialized tools to more effectively treat the source of your pain and tension. One of the most effective techniques we can use is IASTM (pronounced eye-stim).
What is IASTM?
IASTM, also commonly referred to as Gua Sha or muscle scraping, stands for instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. The modality uses metal tools that are specifically shaped to treat restrictions in the muscles, tendons, and tissues. Practiced by physical therapists and massage therapists alike, IASTM techniques are particularly effective at targeting restrictions in the soft tissues of the body, including scar tissue, adhesions or “knots”, and restrictions of the fascia. At Resolve Wellness, we use the Graston Technique, which employs stainless steel tools that are beveled and shaped to glide over the contours of the body.
To see IASTM in action, check out our video on Instragram!
Benefits of IASTM Scraping Tools
IASTM can be very beneficial for alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and increasing range of motion, due to its ability to target specific areas of the body with precision and control. Unlike traditional massage techniques, which rely on the therapist's hands and fingers to apply pressure, IASTM tools can reach deeper layers of tissue and provide a more targeted pressure. This can be particularly effective in treating chronic pain and injuries that have not responded to other forms of treatment.
Pain Relief - IASTM can be effective in providing pain relief for those recovering from injuries and those with chronic neck and back pain.
Range of Motion - IASTM can increase range of motion and flexibility by addressing restrictions that are limiting mobility and generating heat that can relax the tissues.
Reducing Inflammation – the pressure and friction applied by the IASTM tool can increase blood flow to the affected area, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and removing waste products and toxins. This increased blood flow helps to reduce inflammation and swelling, promoting faster healing and recovery.
What Conditions Does IASTM Treat?
Due to IASMT being a soft tissue treatment, it can be used to treat a variety of conditions related to soft tissue dysfunction, including but not limited to:
Pulled muscles
Strained ligaments
Post-surgical scarring
Forms of tendinitis or tendinopathy, including tennis elbow and plantar fasciitis
While IASTM can be highly effective in treating a range of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries, it is not appropriate for everyone. It is important to consult with your massage therapist or healthcare provider before receiving an IASTM treatment, particularly if you have any underlying medical conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is IASTM treatment painful?
IASTM is not painful, however, it requires a certain amount of force to be applied to reach the soft tissue. This may be slightly uncomfortable, especially around tense or tight areas, but you shouldn't feel any intense pain. If you find IASTM to be painful, you should let your massage therapist know immediately so they can adjust the pressure.
Why are the tools made of metal?
Resolve Wellness uses metal tools for IASTM because they are the most durable and sanitary option. While traditional modalities like Gua Sha often utilize wood or stone tools, these kinds of porous materials can harbor bacteria, making them less sanitary to use between multiple clients. Our tools are medical-grade steel and are sanitized after every use.
Will IASTM leave a mark?
IASTM will cause some immediate redness as blood flow to the area increases. This is a good thing, as increased blood circulation will help those tissues recover faster. Petechiae, tiny red dots over the skin, can arise if surface-level capillaries break during treatment. Some bruising can occur from IASTM treatments, especially if the client is prone to bruising.
Add On IASTM to Your Massage!
IASTM can be a powerful tool for reducing scar tissue, recovering from injuries, and addressing areas of chronic pain. Resolve Wellness of San Diego offers IASTM as an add-on treatment to any massage. Simply click the button below to request a massage appointment and choose the IASTM add-on option!
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Ariela Liberman is a staff writer for Resolve Wellness, with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies. Born and raised in San Diego, she is a Southern California native with a passion for writing, digital marketing, health, and wellness.
Reviewed By: Erynne Hill, MS, ATC, HHP, BFRC, is a Holistic Health Practitioner and Nationally Certified Athletic Trainer who has been a part of the healthcare field since 2002. She is the Director of Resolve Wellness, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage and prenatal massage. Erynne has extensive knowledge of both massage therapy and physiology, receiving her Master's degree in Exercise Physiology from San Diego State University.
Medically Reviewed by: Arturo Valle, PT, DPT, FAFS, CSCS, STMT-1, BFR-1, CCI
Dr. Valle is a Physical Therapist, Clinic Director of Rehab United in Escondido, and Director of Rehab United’s Quality Assurance Program. As a graduate of USC’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, Dr. Valle has always emphasized the implementation of Evidence-Based Practice into all plans of care. Throughout his 12 years of experience, Dr. Valle has treated thousands of orthopedic-related and sports injuries and mentored countless Physical Therapists and Students of Physical Therapy.
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