In recent years, several physical therapy techniques have emerged that utilize tools to manipulate soft tissues. Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is one such technique that has gained popularity among physical therapists. IASTM involves using specially designed tools to manipulate soft tissues, primarily muscles and fascia, to promote healing and alleviate pain.
While IASTM on its own has been shown to be effective in treating various conditions, combining it with other therapies can enhance its benefits. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of combining IASTM tools with other therapies.
1. Improved Joint Mobility: IASTM, when combined with joint mobilization techniques, can significantly improve joint mobility. Joint mobilization is the passive movement of a joint through its range of motion by a therapist. By using IASTM tools to break up adhesions and scar tissue in the muscles and surrounding tissues, joint mobilization becomes easier, resulting in improved joint mobility.
2. Faster Recovery: The combination of IASTM and other therapies such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and moist heat therapy can significantly reduce recovery time. When IASTM is used to break up scar tissue and adhesions, these other therapies can penetrate deeper into the tissues, leading to faster healing.
3. Pain Relief: IASTM, when combined with massage therapy, can provide pain relief to patients suffering from chronic or acute pain. By using IASTM tools to break up painful adhesions and scar tissue, massage therapy becomes more effective in relieving pain.
4. Improved Athletic Performance: By combining IASTM with other performance-enhancing therapies such as stretching, plyometrics, and resistance training, athletes can improve their performance. IASTM helps to break up adhesions and scar tissue in the muscles, allowing for increased range of motion, improved flexibility, and reduced pain, resulting in enhanced athletic performance.
5. Reduced Risk of Injury: Combining IASTM with exercise therapy can reduce the risk of injury. When IASTM tools are used to break up adhesions and scar tissue, the muscles become more pliable, reducing the risk of injury during exercise.
In conclusion, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is iastm tools a powerful physical therapy technique that can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. By combining IASTM tools with other therapies, physical therapists can enhance the benefits of IASTM and provide more comprehensive care to their patients.
Whether you are suffering from chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or looking to improve your athletic performance, IASTM, when combined with other therapies, can help you achieve optimal health and wellness. If you are interested in learning more about IASTM and how it can benefit you, speak to a licensed physical therapist today.