Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a skilled myofascial intervention used for soft-tissue treatment. Instruments effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. The ergonomic design of these instruments provides the clinician with the ability to locate restrictions and allows the clinician to treat the affected area with the appropriate amount of pressure.
The introduction of controlled microtrauma to affected soft tissue structure causes the stimulation of local inflammatory response. Microtrauma initiates reabsorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities resulting in remodeling of affected soft tissue structures. Adhesions within the soft tissue that may have developed as a result of surgery, immobilization, repeated strain, or other mechanisms, are broken down allowing full functional restoration to occur.