IASTM

At Encore Chiropractic and Wellness, we utilize a variety of advanced techniques to help patients recover from injuries, improve mobility, and enhance their overall well-being. One of the most effective and innovative treatments we offer is Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM). When combined with chiropractic care, IASTM provides a powerful, non-invasive solution for pain relief, healing, and performance enhancement.

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a hands-on therapeutic technique that involves using specialized instruments to massage and manipulate the soft tissues of the body. The tools are designed to help detect and treat fascial restrictions, adhesions, and scar tissue that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

IASTM is highly effective for treating soft tissue injuries, chronic conditions, and improving tissue health by promoting healing and reducing inflammation. It is a non-invasive and highly targeted approach to therapy that complements the benefits of chiropractic care.

IASTM combined with chiropractic care is an effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Muscle strains and ligament sprains.
• Chronic pain (neck, back, shoulders, knees, etc.).
• Tendonitis and tendinopathy (e.g., tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow).
• Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.
• Shin splints and IT band syndrome.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Scar tissue and adhesions from past injuries.
• Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points.

1. Faster Healing and Tissue Repair

IASTM helps to break down scar tissue and adhesions that can form after an injury or due to chronic tension. By using the instruments to apply controlled pressure, we can improve blood flow to the injured area, which speeds up the healing process and promotes tissue regeneration.

2. Pain Reduction

By targeting the root causes of soft tissue pain, such as muscle tightness, scar tissue, and nerve compression, IASTM helps to alleviate discomfort and restore normal movement. Many patients experience significant pain relief after just a few sessions.

3. Increased Range of Motion

Tight muscles, fascia, and scar tissue can severely limit your range of motion. IASTM releases these restrictions, allowing the tissues to return to a more flexible state, improving movement and overall function.

4. Improved Circulation and Lymphatic Flow

The manipulation of tissues with IASTM encourages better circulation and lymphatic drainage, which helps to reduce inflammation and improve tissue health.

5. Enhanced Mobility and Function

By combining IASTM with chiropractic care, we can restore your spine and joints to optimal alignment while also addressing soft tissue restrictions. This comprehensive approach leads to improved mobility, functional movement, and better overall performance in daily activities or sports.

6. Non-Invasive and Safe

IASTM is a non-surgical, non-pharmaceutical therapy that helps address soft tissue problems in a safe, effective way. This makes it an excellent option for individuals who prefer natural treatments over medications or invasive procedures.

At Encore Chiropractic and Wellness, we take a holistic approach to healing, integrating IASTM with chiropractic care to provide comprehensive treatment. Here’s how both therapies work together:

1. Chiropractic Adjustments
   Chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine and joints, which helps restore proper nervous system function and improve overall movement. Once alignment is restored, IASTM is more effective in addressing soft tissue restrictions that could be affecting your mobility and causing pain.

2. IASTM for Soft Tissue Healing
   IASTM specifically targets areas of muscle tension, adhesions, and fascial restrictions. By applying precise pressure with specialized tools, we can stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and improve tissue quality.

3. Comprehensive Care
   While chiropractic care restores your spine’s alignment and optimizes nervous system function, IASTM targets specific muscle and soft tissue problems. Together, they create a powerful, multifaceted approach to injury recovery, pain relief, and improved performance.

Each IASTM session is personalized to address your specific needs and goals. Here’s what to expect:

1. Assessment
   We will perform a detailed assessment to identify the areas that need treatment. This may include a physical exam and a review of your medical history and symptoms.

2. IASTM Treatment
   The chiropractor will use specialized tools to apply controlled pressure to the affected tissues. You may feel some discomfort as adhesions and scar tissue are worked out, but the pressure should be tolerable and beneficial.

3. Post-Treatment Care
   After an IASTM session, you may experience mild soreness, similar to the feeling after a good workout. We’ll provide advice on how to care for the treated area, including stretching, hydration, and post-treatment exercises to support the healing process.

4. Ongoing Treatment Plan
   Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend additional sessions to ensure you achieve the best results. IASTM is often combined with chiropractic adjustments, stretching, and strengthening exercises for comprehensive rehabilitation.