IASTM In Ankeny, IA

Our team of specialists uses instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM). This is a manual form of physical therapy. Our physical therapists use special metal or plastic tools to gently scrape and move the skin to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing.

IASTM is likely to be beneficial for you if you are living with a chronic or painful condition. We can help you learn more about this technique by scheduling an appointment with one of our physical therapists.

How can I find out if IASTM is right for me?

It is possible that you are wondering if IASTM might be right for your needs. IASTM can treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Pain in the back
• Neck pain
• Hip pain
• Achilles tendonitis/Heel pain
• Myofascial pain, restrictions
• Muscle imbalances
• Rotator cuff tendonitis
• Patellar tendonitis
• Muscle strains
• Ligament sprains
• Shin splints
• Chronic joint swelling due to sprains/strains
• Bursitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Scarring from post-surgical or traumatic procedures
• Plantar fasciitis
• Trigger finger
• IT band syndrome

What can I expect from IASTM in Ankeny, IA?

It may seem strange to ask, “Why is it necessary to use tools in physical therapy?” Although manual therapy is done with the hands, there are many benefits to using instruments. These instruments can be used to effectively remove scar tissue and connective tissue restrictions. These instruments can also be used to aid physical therapists in finding and treating affected areas more accurately.

An IASTM-trained physical therapy therapist can use a variety of pressures and speeds to perform this particular technique. It will depend on your specific condition and needs. These pressures and speeds are used to either stimulate a contraction (also called turning a muscle on) or to inhibit it (also known as turning a muscle off).

A mild inflammatory response occurs when you apply pressure via IASTM to the affected muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Although it may seem counterintuitive at first, inflammation is a natural part of the body’s healing process. This allows you to recover faster and get back to your normal life.

It also helps to break down any adhesions and scars that may have developed due to an operation, repetitive injury or immobilization. IASTM helps to break down these scars, allowing functional restoration to take place.

IASTM has been shown to be helpful with:

• Moving with pain
• Problems with muscle recruitment
• Limited motion
• Problems with motor control

How do I get started?

Are you experiencing any of the above symptoms? Do you feel pain? Do you find it difficult to do your daily tasks? IASTM might be right for you.

Call our office to make an appointment. One of our physical therapists will help you determine the best treatment plan. Do not suffer from life! Get physical therapy today!