Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation Techniques (IASTM)

Posted on August 5, 2025 by in Back Pain, General, Manual Therapy Research, neck pain, Newbury

Graston Technique

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation Techniques

I know what you are thinking, why is a Chiropractor talking about soft tissue therapy? I know a lot of people think all Chiropractors do is “crack backs” and call it a day, right? Well, this is where Spriggs Chiropractic is different to your typical chiropractic clinic. For those who might be new to these blogs and therefore the clinic, here at Spriggs Chiropractic we do more than just spinal manipulation (clicking and cracking). We are a rehabilitation clinic where we treat you as a whole person, which includes the muscles and other tissues that attach to the spine. Whether it’s chronic muscle tightness, scar tissue from a previous injury, or general aches and pains, people often turn to massage, physical therapy, or rest to heal. But there’s another powerful tool in the world of manual therapy and that’s of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM). There are several named techniques in the realm of IASTM, the most common of I hear is called Graston Technique, which is sometimes referred to as “skin scraping”.

The Graston Technique is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)1–3. It, like all other forms of IASTM technique involves the use of specially designed stainless-steel tools that help therapists locate and treat areas of scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Developed in the early 1990s, the technique has become a staple in many physical therapy and chiropractic practices. It’s not just about scraping the surface—this method dives deep into the tissue to promote healing and restore mobility1.

 

How Does It Work?

During an appointment, the practitioner applies one of several contoured instruments to the skin, using gentle to moderate pressure while gliding the tool over the affected area. The tools allow the therapist to feel and identify irregularities in the soft tissue. It has been shown to increase the production of fibroblasts in the tissue being treated4. Fibroblasts are the cells that are involved in soft tissue healing and regeneration in mammals5. So, we can stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain by using these techniques. We have discussed the healing process in a previous blog post, so for more information on how the body heals from injury, have a read of that post.

Once an area of restriction is located, the tool is used to break down scar tissue and adhesions. This action helps:

  • Stimulate a local inflammatory response,
  • Promote increased blood flow,
  • Encourage the formation of healthy collagen,
  • Restore range of motion5

While it may sound intense, many patients describe the sensation as a “hurts so good” type of discomfort during the treatment, followed by a noticeable improvement in mobility and pain relief after.

It’s especially popular in sports rehabilitation and among individuals with repetitive strain injuries.

Common Conditions for IASTM

IASTM techniques has been studied for its effectiveness in the treatment and management of:

  • Chronic low back pain3.
  • Neck pain3.
  • Cervicogenic headaches3.
  • Increasing shoulder range of motion6.
  • Increasing hip range of motion6.

For those interested in more information, this research paper by Seffrin et al (2019) is a very good and interesting read. (Ref https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31322903/).

What to Expect After Treatment

As you can probably imagine with this type of soft tissue therapy, you can expect some mild bruising and/or some post-treatment soreness is common—this is a normal part of the healing response as blood flow increases, and tissue remodelling begins. We recommend ice packs be applied after the session. These symptoms typically resolve after 24-48 hours after the session. Once the tissue has calmed down, it is really important we commence strengthening exercises to maximise the tissue remodelling, maintaining blood flow, improving collagen production and enhancing tendon and ligament healing7–10.

Are IASTM Techniques Right for You?

While effective, IASTM techniques aren’t for everyone. It may not be recommended for individuals with certain conditions such as open wounds, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or specific vascular disorders. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider to determine whether it’s appropriate for your situation. The technique itself can be very beneficial, however, it can be a painful procedure to have done, so it’s not for the faint hearted at times, but the procedure is only applied for 2-3 minutes, so the discomfort won’t last long. Keep this in mind if you call the clinic asking for this procedure.

Final Thoughts

IASTM techniques offer a targeted, effective approach to treating soft tissue dysfunction. Whether you’re an athlete recovering from overuse or someone dealing with chronic pain, this technique can be a game-changer in your rehabilitation journey.

If you’re curious about how this technique can help you move better and feel better, call us on 01635 43238 or email hello@spriggschiropractic.co.uk or book online on our website.

 

By Mark Spriggs DC, MChiro, MSc, PGcert, FRCC

 

References:

  1. Cheatham SW, Baker RT, Larkins LW, Baker JG, Casanova MP. Clinical Practice Patterns Among Health Care Professionals for Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. J Athl Train. 2021;56(10):1100-1111. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-047-20
  2. Cheatham SW, Lee M, Cain M, Baker R. The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2016;60(3):200-211. http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=awh&AN=118293412&site=ehost-live
  3. Tang S, Sheng L, Wei X, Liang M, Xia J, Chen J. The effectiveness of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on pain and function in patients with musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2025;26(1). doi:10.1186/s12891-025-08492-4
  4. Lee JH, Lee DK, Oh JS. The effect of Graston technique on the pain and range of motion in patients with chronic low back pain. J Phys Ther Sci. 2016;28(6):1852-1855. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.1852
  5. Jiang D, Rinkevich Y. Distinct fibroblasts in scars and regeneration. Curr Opin Genet Dev. 2021;70:7-14. doi:10.1016/j.gde.2021.04.005
  6. Seffrin CB, Cattano NM, Reed MA, Gardiner-Shires AM. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization: A systematic review and effect-size analysis. J Athl Train. 2019;54(7):808-821. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-481-17
  7. Liu C, Wu X, Vulugundam G, Gokulnath P, Li G, Xiao J. Exercise Promotes Tissue Regeneration: Mechanisms Involved and Therapeutic Scope. Sport Med – Open. 2023;9(1). doi:10.1186/s40798-023-00573-9
  8. Kjaer M, Langberg H, Miller B, et al. Metablic Activity and Collagen Turnover in Human Tendon in Response to Physical Activity. J Musculoskelet Neuronal Interact. 2006;5(1):41-52. doi:10.1079/9780851996134.0270
  9. Andarawis-Puri N, Flatow E. Promoting Effective Tendon Healing and Remodeling Nelly. J Orthop Res. 2018;36(12):3115-3124. doi:10.1002/jor.24133.Promoting
  10. Bleakley C, Netterström-Wedin F. Does mechanical loading restore ligament biomechanics after injury? A systematic review of studies using animal models. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2023;24(1):1-12. doi:10.1186/s12891-023-06653-x

 

 

 

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