Certificate in IASTM Deep Tissue Sports Massage | Free Udemy Course

Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a manual therapy technique used by healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat soft tissue injuries and dysfunctions. It involves the use of specialized tools made of various materials such as stainless steel, plastic, or ceramic to mobilize and manipulate soft tissue.

IASTM tools are used to apply targeted pressure and friction to soft tissue, helping to break up scar tissue and fascial restrictions, increase blood flow, and promote healing. The technique is commonly used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including tendinitis, muscle strains, joint pain, and fascial restrictions.

IASTM is a non-invasive and relatively painless technique that can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other manual therapy techniques, such as massage or stretching. It is also an effective technique for athletes and active individuals looking to improve performance and prevent injuries.

IASTM is a great tool for myofascial release and sports massage.

In terms of scanning, the practitioner may use the instrument to assess the texture and quality of the soft tissues, identifying areas of restriction and adhesions. This assessment may involve moving the instrument in different directions and angles over the skin and underlying tissues, feeling for any areas of resistance or abnormalities.

The practitioner may use different strokes or techniques with the instrument, such as cross-friction, scraping, or brushing, to mobilize the soft tissues. These strokes are applied in a controlled and deliberate manner, with the goal of breaking up adhesions and scar tissue and promoting tissue healing and regeneration.

The purpose of the warm-up stroke is to increase circulation and blood flow to the affected area, as well as to help relax any tense or tight muscles. This can help to improve the overall effectiveness of the IASTM treatment and minimize any discomfort or pain that the patient may experience during the session.

The warm-up stroke is typically performed using a lighter pressure and a more superficial angle than the more targeted strokes that will be used later on in the session. The practitioner may start with a larger IASTM tool and gradually transition to a smaller tool as the warm-up stroke progresses.

To perform the combing stroke, the practitioner will first identify the area of fascial restriction or adhesion. They will then use the IASTM tool to apply pressure to the affected area, using a back-and-forth or side-to-side motion to "comb" the fascia and break up any adhesions.

The pressure and angle of the tool will vary depending on the location and severity of the fascial restriction or adhesion. The practitioner may also adjust the angle of the tool or change the direction of the stroke to target specific areas of the fascia.

In IASTM, the cross friction stroke is a technique that is used to break down adhesions and scar tissue in the soft tissues, particularly in tendons and ligaments. The cross friction stroke is typically performed using a specialized IASTM tool that has a smooth or rounded edge.

It is a useful technique for breaking down adhesions and scar tissue in the soft tissues, and it can be particularly effective for treating conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, lateral epicondylitis, and other forms of soft tissue dysfunction.

The channeling stroke is a technique used in IASTM to address deeper tissue layers and promote healing and tissue regeneration. It involves using an IASTM tool to apply pressure in a specific direction along a channel or path within the soft tissue.

To perform the pin and stretch method, the practitioner will first identify the area of tissue that requires treatment. They will then use the IASTM tool to apply pressure to the tissue, pinning it in place while the patient actively moves the joint through a range of motion. The pinning of the tissue helps to facilitate a stretch of the targeted area, which can help to improve mobility and flexibility.

The modified cross-friction technique is typically performed with a moderate to heavy pressure, and the practitioner will monitor the patient's response and adjust the pressure as needed to ensure that the treatment is comfortable and effective.

The modified cross-friction technique is a useful technique for promoting blood flow and relieving pain in the affected area.

Back pain can be caused due to many reasons including muscle strain, PIVD, anterior pelvic tilt, spondylosis. This technique can help you break adhesions and bring the muscle back to function.

Tennis elbow is caused by the overuse injury of the extensor muscles so with the use of IASTM we can release the strain leading to smooth functioning of the soft tissue leading to reduced tendon friction over the lateral epicondyle and subsiding the inflammation. Overactivity in extended wrist like playing musical instruments, golf, lifting heavy suitcases.

Medial epicondylitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other conditions like stroke and flexor compartment contractures can be cured by the appropriate use of IASTM tools. Weakness & paraesthesia in case of taut band compressing the nerves.

Biceps can be strained during gym injuries, elbow contractures, and lot many conditions. Try IASTM and get the patient going. Pain can be caused by lifting heavy objects, activities involving repeated flexion of forearm like washing, ironing clothes, playing musical instruments, knitting. The same pattern of pain is caused by secondary entrapment of radial nerve.

Locate the ischial tuberosity and trace down on the posterior aspect of the thigh till the head of fibula for biceps femoris which covers more than half of the posterior thigh asking the patient to flex the knee. Medial hamstring (semimembranosus and semitendinosus) can be palpated on the medial side tracing till the medial aspect of the knee.

Pain occurs while walking and severe pain in night. May give a limp.

Pain is concentrated on posterior thigh and knee.

Gastrocnemius it is prone to painful spasm. It is involved in running, jumping and fast movement of leg. Patient complains of calf, posterior knee and foot pain.

Soleus it is the muscle responsible for maintaining erect standing posture. It pumps venous blood back to heart (sural pump). It is vital in walking, standing and running. Patient complains of heel pain in weight bearing. Patient has difficulty in walking up and downhill.

Pain extends to anterior chest, anterior deltoid, inner & volar aspect of arm and sternum. Mostly common in males practicing contact sports and weight lifting. Left side if involved may mimic angina.