Restore Movement
IASTM Therapy
What Is IASTM Therapy?
The Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization has been made of different materials, but a popular one is the Graston Technique. It can help alleviate symptoms associated with limited or painful motion motor control issues. They are one of the most, if not the most, effective way of targetting tight and congest fascia.
Soft-tissue injuries are often delayed in patients. A doctor is not usually seen for weeks or months after the injury occurs. The self-healing process has already been completed by this time. Adhesions and scar tissue have developed, which might cause discomfort and restricted motion. These can be like superglue to the body. New cells form in a disorganized manner when scar tissue develops.
How Does IASTM Therapy Work?
The IASTM is a technique that employs controlled microtrauma to create a local inflammatory response in the soft tissue region. When you don’t allow the muscles to relax and lengthen properly, this can delay healing. The physical therapist will frequently have to restart the healing process in order for the soft tissue to be remodelled in the afflicted region.
This causes excessive scar tissue to reabsorb and the remodelling of the soft tissue structure damaged as a result of it. The cells will become organized following this treatment, which will aid in the development of movement by better promoting tissue organization.
Our Approach
We have a holistic approach to getting you back on your feet. At Move Origin, our goal is for each patient's treatment plan not only includes restoring range-of motion and stability but also building strength so they can be as active with their new lifestyle!
Are you dealing with tight muscles, continuous pain, or slow recovery? You’re not alone, and there’s a smart way to feel better. IASTM therapy (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation) is a hands-on technique that’s helping everyday people to move better, heal faster, and feel stronger.
IASTM Massage Therapy for Enhanced Recovery
IASTM massage therapy is a specialised technique where therapists use ergonomically designed tools to gently scrape or glide over the skin. This process helps break down scar tissue, release muscle adhesions, and stimulate blood flow to the affected area. Unlike traditional massage, IASTM allows for more targeted and deeper tissue work, making it especially effective for chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation.Key Benefits of IASTM Massage Therapy:
- Accelerated healing: Promotes faster tissue repair and regeneration.
- Pain relief: Reduces discomfort from muscle knots, tendinitis, or overuse injuries.
- Improved mobility: Restores range of motion in stiff or restricted areas.
- Enhanced performance: Helps athletes recover quickly and prevent future injuries.
The Role of Scraping Therapy in Physical Rehabilitation
You might hear IASTM therapy referred to as scraping therapy because of the gentle scraping motion used during treatment. This technique is rooted in ancient healing practices but is now backed by modern research and clinical experience.How Scraping Therapy Works?
- Special tools are used to apply controlled pressure and movement across the skin.
- This stimulates the body’s natural healing response, increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.
- Scraping therapy can be combined with stretching, exercise, or other manual therapies for optimal results.
Scraping therapy is particularly beneficial for:
- Scar tissue from injuries or surgery
- Chronic muscle tightness or pain
- Conditions like plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, or tennis elbow
How IASTM Massage Complements Other Manual Therapies?
IASTM massage is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan. At Move Origin, therapists often combine IASTM with other modalities, such as remedial massage, trigger point therapy, dry needling, and active release techniques. This holistic approach addresses both the root cause of pain and the surrounding soft tissue restrictions, leading to better, longer-lasting results.When to Consider IASTM Massage?
- You have stubborn muscle knots that don’t respond to regular massage.
- You’re recovering from an injury and want to speed up the healing process.
- You’re an athlete looking to optimise performance and prevent injuries.
- You want to improve flexibility and reduce the risk of future problems.
Targeted Release: How IASTM Pinpoints Trigger Points for Athletes?
IASTM therapy is not just about scraping; it’s a precision tool for targeting the very same “trigger points” and muscular knots that limit movement and cause pain. For athletes and active individuals, integrating IASTM with movement-based therapy is a game-changer for both performance and injury prevention.Targeting Key Trigger Points:
IASTM tools allow therapists to apply focused pressure to stubborn trigger points that might be too deep or painful to release with manual pressure alone. By applying the tool with a scraping motion over a tight piriformis muscle, for example, a therapist can break up fascial adhesions that contribute to sciatica, a common issue for runners and cyclists. Similarly, targeting the IT band or the quadriceps can help relieve knee pain in a way that traditional massage often can’t.Restoring Movement and Range of Motion:
The true power of IASTM lies in its combination with active movement. The therapist can use the tool to apply tension to a muscle while the client moves the affected joint through its range of motion. This “movement-based” approach helps to remodel soft tissue and break down scar tissue in a way that directly translates to sport-specific movements. For a swimmer, this might involve IASTM on the latissimus dorsi while they perform a swimming motion. For a tennis player, it could be treating the forearm extensors while they grip and flex their wrist. This approach not only releases tension but also “teaches” the muscle to move more efficiently and without restriction.Beyond the Surface:
IASTM’s ability to work on multiple layers of tissue is what makes it so effective for athletes. The tools help the therapist access deep fascial layers, a crucial network of connective tissue that can become stiff and restrict movement. By releasing these deep fascial lines, IASTM can improve overall muscle function, increase flexibility, and help the body absorb and produce force more effectively, leading to enhanced performance and a reduced risk of future injuries.Discover Our Full Range of Specialised Massage and Therapy Services
At Move Origin, we believe everybody is unique and so is every path to wellness. That’s why we offer a comprehensive suite of advanced therapies, each designed to address specific needs and recovery goals. Explore our other popular services and see how they can work together for your best results:Remedial Massage
Target chronic pain, muscle tension, and injuries with focused, therapeutic techniques that restore function and flexibility.Sports Massage Therapy
Enhance performance, speed up recovery, and prevent injuries—perfect for athletes and active individuals.Dry Needling Massage
Release deep muscle knots and trigger points with precision-placed needles for fast, effective relief.Cupping Therapy
Boost circulation, reduce muscle tightness, and promote healing with this ancient suction technique.Active Release Technique
Break up scar tissue and restore movement using a combination of manual pressure and guided muscle motion.Trigger Point Therapy
Pinpoint and relieve stubborn muscle knots that cause referred pain and limit mobility. Each of these therapies can be customised and combined for a truly personalised treatment experience. Click on any service above to learn more, or ask our team how these approaches can be integrated into your recovery plan for optimal results.Is IASTM Therapy Safe?
When performed by a trained professional, IASTM therapy is safe and well-tolerated. Therapists at Move Origin are experienced in using these techniques and will always prioritise your comfort and safety. As with any manual therapy, it’s important to communicate any discomfort during your session so adjustments can be made.Revitalise Your Wellness Journey Today – Book Your Customised Massage Experience Now
Take the first step toward feeling renewed and pain-free. At Move Origin, we tailor every massage and therapy session to your unique needs, combining expert techniques like remedial massage, sports therapy, dry needling, cupping, and more. Don’t wait to experience the healing power of personalised care. Book your customised massage experience today and start your journey to better health and vitality!Move Origin Norwest
Frequently Asked Questions
IASTM therapy stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation—a technique that uses special tools to treat muscle pain, scar tissue, and mobility issues.
IASTM massage therapy uses tools for deeper, more targeted tissue work, while traditional massage relies solely on the therapist’s hands.
Scraping therapy is effective for chronic pain, sports injuries, scar tissue, tendinitis, and restricted mobility.
Most clients feel only mild discomfort or a warming sensation. Any soreness after treatment is usually temporary.
The number of sessions varies based on your condition and goals. Some people feel relief after one session, while others may benefit from a series of treatments.
Yes! IASTM is often combined with remedial massage, sports therapy massage, dry needling, and active release techniques for optimal results.
Mild redness, temporary marks, or slight soreness are common but typically resolve quickly.
