What is Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)?

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a therapeutic technique that uses specific applied instruments to promote mobilization of restricted tissue. Specially designed instruments can aide in the restoration of muscle pain, decreased mobility, and myofascial restrictions.⁹

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) Research Studies

A systematic review of 7 randomized control trials by Cheatham, et. al looked at the efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, or IASTM. This review found that there was insignificant evidence that IASTM was beneficial for treating musculoskeletal pathology, although some evidence showed increased short-term joint range of motion.⁹

Effective Treatment for Soft Tissue Pain

While Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) may not be effective in long-term pain relief, studies have shown that ASTR treatment provides patients with short-term and long-term pain relief. ASTR stands for Advanced Soft Tissue Release, a manual therapy specialty developed by Dr. Joesph Jacobs, DPT. ASTR takes a holistic approach to treating the source of soft tissue restriction in a way that is virtually pain-free and highly effective.

有效的止痛治疗

ASTR 通过解决肌肉失衡、疤痕组织、触发点、筋膜限制、炎症、姿势、身体力学（通常是疼痛的根源），以温和、有效和自然的方式治疗肌肉和关节疼痛。 ASTR 采用整体方法来解决疼痛的根本原因，而不仅仅是症状。 ASTR 治疗可以在家中进行肌肉和关节疼痛。

Reference:

9. Cheatham SW, Lee M, Cain M, et al. : The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. J Can Chiropr Assoc, 2016, 60: 200–211.