Well-Balanced Family Chiropractic Singapore

Unveiling the Evidence-Based Benefits of IASTM: Empowering Musculoskeletal Health

iastm

In the realm of musculoskeletal therapy, Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) has emerged as a scientifically supported technique, garnering attention for its remarkable benefits in promoting healing and optimising musculoskeletal function. 

 

Unveiling IASTM: An Evidence-Based Approach:

IASTM involves the skilled utilisation of specialised tools to precisely apply controlled pressure and manipulation to the body’s soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This evidence-based technique is rooted in scientific research and clinical studies that have validated its effectiveness in various musculoskeletal conditions.

 

Scientific Mechanisms at Work:

Through controlled pressure and friction, IASTM stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Evidence suggests that it enhances blood flow, promotes tissue remodelling, and triggers the release of growth factors, leading to accelerated tissue healing and improved overall musculoskeletal health.(Rowlett et al., 2018)

Evidence-Based Benefits of IASTM:

 
IASTM
  • Pain Management: IASTM has been shown to effectively reduce pain in musculoskeletal conditions like tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and myofascial pain syndrome. By targeting soft tissue restrictions, IASTM helps alleviate pain and restore pain-free movement.(Gulick,2018)
  • Improved Range of Motion: Scientific evidence supports the ability of IASTM to enhance joint mobility, increase range of motion, and improve flexibility by breaking down fascial adhesions and scar tissue that limit movement.(Rowlett et al., 2018)
  • Accelerated Tissue Healing: Research shows that IASTM promotes tissue healing by increasing collagen production, improving vascularity, and facilitating tissue remodelling. This evidence-backed benefit can lead to faster recovery from injuries and improved overall tissue health.
  • Enhanced Sports Performance: Athletes and active individuals can benefit from IASTM as an evidence-based strategy to optimise sports performance. By addressing soft tissue restrictions and promoting optimal muscle function, IASTM contributes to injury prevention and enhanced athletic performance.(Rowlett et al., 2018)
  • Complementary Rehabilitation: IASTM can be integrated into comprehensive rehabilitation programs to amplify outcomes, expedite recovery, and improve patient outcomes when combined with other evidence-based modalities.(Gunn et al., 2018)

 

Conclusion:

With strong scientific research and clinical evidence backing its effectiveness, shockwave therapy has become a trusted and evidence-based treatment option for musculoskeletal conditions. It offers pain relief, tissue regeneration, and non-invasive treatment, making it an appealing choice for those seeking alternatives to surgery or medication. Contact our experienced chiropractors to see if shockwave therapy is right for you and experience its benefits in accelerating healing and improving musculoskeletal function.

 

References:

Gulick, Dawn T. “Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Increases Myofascial Trigger Point Pain Threshold.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, vol. 22, no. 2, Apr. 2018, pp. 341–345, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2017.10.012.

Rowlett, Carrie A., et al. “Efficacy of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization in Comparison to Gastrocnemius-Soleus Stretching for Dorsiflexion Range of Motion: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, Feb. 2018, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1360859218300767, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2018.02.008. 

Gunn, Leanna J., et al. “Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques Improve Hamstring Flexibility Better than Static Stretching Alone: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, vol. 27, no. 1, Aug. 2018, pp. 15–23, https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1475693. Accessed 30 Apr. 2020.