Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation: Supporting Recovery and Restoring Movement
- Dr Tommy-Lee McCafferty DC
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
What is Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation?
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) involves the use of precision-designed stainless steel instruments to apply controlled pressure to muscles, tendons, and fascia.
Unlike traditional massage or soft tissue therapies, IASTM allows for highly targeted treatment. Many people seek it to help address areas of stiffness, limited mobility, or scar tissue that may have developed after injury or repetitive strain.
How Does IASTM Work?
Breaking Down Scar Tissue and Adhesions
When the body heals from an injury, scar tissue and adhesions can form. These may restrict movement and cause the surrounding muscles to work harder. IASTM is designed to address these areas, helping tissues regain a more natural function.
Improving Circulation and Healing Response
The treatment is thought to stimulate blood flow, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. This may support the body’s natural repair process while easing stiffness.
Supporting Better Movement Patterns
Chronic injuries sometimes lead to altered movement patterns as the body adapts around discomfort. Research suggests that IASTM techniques may help stimulate receptors in the muscles and fascia, supporting improved activation and coordination (McCormack et al., 2016). Conditions Where IASTM May Be Considered
IASTM is often used as part of a wider care plan for:
Tendon-related concerns, such as Achilles tendonitis or tennis elbow
Plantar fasciitis (a common cause of heel discomfort)
Post-surgical or post-injury scar tissue management
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
Ongoing muscle tightness (neck, lower back, legs)
Shin splints
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Some studies suggest IASTM can support improvements in function and mobility for people living with these conditions (Kim et al., 2017).
What to Expect During an IASTM Treatment
IASTM treatment involves gently gliding a specialised stainless steel instrument over the affected area using specific strokes.
Many people describe the sensation as similar to a deep massage with a stretching or scraping effect. While mild discomfort can occur, it should not be painful.
After treatment, you may notice:
Easier movement and improved flexibility
A sense of reduced tension
Temporary redness or light bruising, which is a normal response to increased circulation
The Science Behind IASTM
Research into IASTM techniques has found:
Improved circulation and tissue healing: IASTM may increase microcirculation and collagen production, which supports the body’s natural healing process (Sevier & Stegink-Jansen, 2015).
Neurological effects on movement and discomfort: By stimulating mechanoreceptors in the skin and muscles, IASTM may influence how the body perceives discomfort and encourage more efficient movement (Kim et al., 2017).
Support for mobility: A study in The Journal of Sport Rehabilitation suggested IASTM may improve flexibility and reduce scar tissue in post-surgical patients (Hammer et al., 2018).
Is IASTM Right for You?
If you are experiencing ongoing stiffness, reduced mobility, or soft tissue concerns, IASTM could form part of a supportive treatment plan.
At Connected Chiropractic, our team incorporates IASTM alongside other chiropractic and soft tissue approaches, always tailoring care to your unique needs and goals.
Would you like to explore whether IASTM could help support your recovery? Book a consultation with us today to learn more. Written by Dr Tommy-Lee McCafferty, Doctor of Chiropractic.
References
Hammer, W. I., Pfefer, M. T., & Smith, L. L. (2018). The effects of IASTM on range of motion and soft tissue mobility. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation.
Kim, D. C., et al. (2017). Effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on pain perception and mobility. Journal of Physical Therapy Science.
McCormack, J. R., et al. (2016). Neuromuscular adaptations to instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Clinical Biomechanics.
Sevier, T. L., & Stegink-Jansen, C. W. (2015). Effects of IASTM on microvascular blood flow and healing. Journal of Athletic Training.
