Graston Technique and IASTM: Breaking Up Stubborn Scar Tissue
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, often known by the brand name Graston Technique, has become a valuable tool in modern physical therapy. Using specially designed instruments, therapists can address restrictions in muscles, tendons, and fascia that limit movement and cause pain.
What Is IASTM?
IASTM stands for instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. Instead of using only the hands, the therapist uses smooth, ergonomically shaped tools to glide across the skin and detect and treat areas of restriction. The Graston Technique is one of the most widely recognized forms of this treatment.
How It Works
When soft tissue is injured or overused, the body can lay down disorganized scar tissue and adhesions. These restrictions limit the way tissues glide against one another, causing stiffness and pain. IASTM instruments help break down these adhesions, stimulate blood flow, and encourage the body to remodel the tissue in a healthier way.
Conditions That Respond Well
At Injury Docs, we use IASTM to help patients with:
- Tennis and golfer's elbow
- Achilles and patellar tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Chronic neck and back tightness
- Scar tissue restrictions after surgery or injury
- IT band tightness and shin splints
What a Session Feels Like
During treatment, you may feel the instrument gliding over your skin with gentle pressure. In areas of restriction, you might notice a slightly gritty or bumpy sensation as the tool encounters adhesions. Some redness afterward is normal and reflects increased blood flow to the area.
Combining IASTM With Exercise
IASTM is most effective when paired with active rehabilitation. After the treatment loosens restricted tissue, targeted exercises help the body rebuild strength and healthy movement patterns. This combination produces far better and longer-lasting results than either approach alone.
Who Should Consider It
IASTM is especially helpful for people dealing with chronic soft tissue problems that have not responded to rest or general stretching. It can also accelerate recovery for those with stubborn scar tissue that limits their range of motion.
Safety and Comfort
When performed by a trained professional, IASTM is safe and well tolerated. Your therapist adjusts pressure to your comfort level and monitors your response, ensuring the treatment supports healing rather than causing excessive irritation.
A Piece of the Bigger Picture
Like any single technique, IASTM works best as part of a comprehensive plan. At Injury Docs, we integrate it with manual therapy, exercise, and education to address not just your symptoms but the underlying causes of your pain.
If you are struggling with tightness, scar tissue, or a nagging soft tissue injury, IASTM may help you finally turn the corner. Contact Injury Docs in Van Nuys today to book an appointment and discover whether this treatment is right for you.