Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), sometimes called the Graston Technique or instrument-assisted myofascial release, utilizes specially designed stainless steel tools to precisely target injured or restricted soft tissue. At Kew Gardens Health Group these instruments allow our therapists to better detect and treat fascial restrictions, scar tissue, and chronic tension that manual manipulation alone may miss.
What Does Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Do?
IASTM focuses on specific areas to relieve stiffness and improve range of motion. By breaking down adhesions and scar tissue at the source, IASTM in Toronto helps patients recover faster from both acute injuries and chronic conditions. This allows you to perform the rehabilitative exercises your therapist recommends to strengthen the injured area, which promotes healing and can help restore your normal function. Treatments are typically 10–15 minutes and can be combined with chiropractic care, athletic therapy, or registered massage therapy for a comprehensive recovery plan.
Benefits of IASTM
- Increased collagen production.
- Decreased pain.
- Restoring proper function.
- Speeding up recovery time.
- Reducing inflammation.
- Improved mobility.
- Alleviating chronic pain conditions.
- No downtime, you can continue activities as normal.
What Conditions Does IASTM Treat?
IASTM therapy in Toronto is commonly used to address:
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow
- IT band syndrome and runner's knee
- Rotator cuff strains and shoulder impingement
- Neck and lower back pain
- Scar tissue from post-surgical recovery
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Shin splints
What Is The Purpose of Soft Tissue Manipulation?
Soft tissue manipulation, including instrument-assisted techniques like IASTM and Graston — covers a range of treatments which aim to improve the mobility of stiff or immobile soft tissues and those with poor circulation due to inactivity or increased tension. It is also used to help mobilize scar tissue, breaking the adhesion cycle and preventing long-term recurrence of inflammation. For patients in Toronto's east end, our therapists at Kew Gardens Health Group bring this clinical-grade treatment directly to your neighbourhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Graston Technique is one branded form of IASTM. Both use specially designed instruments to detect and treat soft tissue dysfunction — the principles are the same, though the specific tools may vary. Our therapists are trained in instrument-assisted methods that follow the same clinical approach.
Some mild discomfort during treatment is normal, particularly over areas of significant restriction or scar tissue. Most patients find the sensation manageable and tolerable, and any soreness after treatment typically resolves within 24–48 hours.
Most patients see noticeable improvement within 4–6 sessions, though this varies depending on the condition and its severity. Your therapist will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your goals.
