IASTT
What is IASTT?
Instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy (IASTT) is a type of manual therapy originating from the Gua Sha method utilized in Chinese medicine. It's a skilled myofascial intervention where specialized tools are used to mobilize the skin, muscles, fascia, and tendons through a variety of stroke techniques.
It's an effective technique used to treat acute, chronic, and post-operative soft tissue injuries. IASTT has been shown to reduce pain, increase range of motion and increase pain tolerance.
How does it work?
IASTT induces controlled microtrauma to affected soft tissue structures which causes a local inflammatory response. This response will initiate the reabsorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue and will facilitate healing and remodelling of affected soft tissue structures.
Adhesions can form in the soft tissue as a result of surgery, immobilization, and repeated strains/sprains to name a few. The goal with IASTT is to break down the adhesions to allow for full functional restoration to occur.