Treatments

IASTM

Targeted soft-tissue treatment using specialized instruments to ease restrictions, reduce pain and restore mobility.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a hands-on treatment technique that uses specially designed stainless-steel instruments to assess and treat muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and other soft tissues. The instruments allow your physiotherapist to identify areas of tissue restriction and apply controlled treatment to help improve mobility, reduce pain and support recovery.

IASTM is commonly used alongside exercise therapy, manual therapy and patient education as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

Conditions we treat

  • Tendinopathies (Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff, tennis elbow)
  • Plantar fasciopathy
  • Muscle strains
  • Scar tissue following injury or surgery
  • Myofascial pain
  • Neck and back pain
  • Shoulder pain
  • IT Band Syndrome
  • Shin splints
  • Reduced flexibility or movement restrictions

How does it work?

IASTM applies controlled mechanical stimulation to soft tissues, which may produce several physiological effects, including:

  • Improved tissue mobility and flexibility
  • Increased local blood circulation
  • Stimulation of the body's natural healing response
  • Reduction in pain sensitivity
  • Improved collagen remodeling during tissue healing
  • Reduction in soft-tissue restrictions
  • Improved range of motion and movement quality
  • Enhanced tolerance to rehabilitation exercises

IASTM is most effective when combined with a personalized rehabilitation program including strengthening, mobility and functional exercises.

What to expect

Your physiotherapist will use specialized instruments to glide over the affected tissues while applying controlled pressure. You may experience mild discomfort during treatment, temporary redness of the skin, mild soreness similar to post-exercise soreness, and occasionally light bruising depending on the condition and treatment intensity. Sessions are individualized based on your symptoms, goals and response to therapy.

Is it right for you?

Your physiotherapist will complete a thorough assessment and medical screening to determine whether IASTM is appropriate. It may not be recommended over open wounds, active infections, acute fractures, certain bleeding disorders, or other conditions where soft-tissue treatment is contraindicated.

Frequently asked questions

Does IASTM leave marks?

Temporary redness is common and occasionally light bruising can occur, depending on the area and treatment intensity. These usually settle within a few days.

Is it the same as 'scraping' or Graston?

IASTM is the general term for instrument-assisted soft-tissue work; Graston is one branded system. Your physiotherapist uses the approach best suited to your assessment.

Is it used on its own?

No — IASTM works best combined with exercise, mobility and strengthening as part of a personalized rehab program.

Selected references

  1. Cheatham SW, Lee M, Cain M, Baker R. The Efficacy of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization: A Systematic Review. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. 2016.
  2. Lambert MI, et al. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization: A Commentary on Clinical Practice Guidelines for Rehabilitation Professionals. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 2019.
  3. Seffrin CB, et al. Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization: A Systematic Review and Effect-Size Analysis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2019.

The information on this page is general and educational, and is not a substitute for an individual assessment or medical advice. Suitability for any treatment is determined by your physiotherapist.

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