Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM)
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM) typically uses medical grade stainless steel implements of various shapes and sizes to rub over the skin. Many chronic conditions such as chronic lower back pain, chronic neck pain and chronic tendinopathy involves myofascial restrictions in the body. IASTM helps to break down the restrictions and assist with laying down healthy tissue. There were 3 proposed mechanisms as to how IASTM works. First, it helps to realign the tissues and allows them to glide smoothly on top of each others. This allows movement and flexibility of the tissue. Secondly, It stimulates the soft tissue to heal by stimulating cells and circulations around the area. Thirdly, it stimulates the nervous system to relax the targeted tissues. IASTM is a well studied technique in the researches and is a technique that is utilised by many health care providers.