Comparing IASTM & Astym Therapy
Chiropractic treatment using muscle scraping IASTM tool, soft tissue mobilization
The differences between Astym and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) are monumental, and the difference between these two forms of therapy can impact health outcomes more than you may know.
IASTM
Background
The roots of the IASTM technique are grounded in an ancient practice known as Gua Shua that was used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Modern IASTM evolved into the Graston technique in the 1980s when a machinist and amateur athlete named David Graston championed the method. Ball State University furthered the practice, and the Graston technique officially became a patented version of IASTM.
Application
IASTM works best post-surgically and only for a specific set of chronic conditions such as some rotator cuff and knee injuries and plantar fasciitis. Some of the success attributed to this form of therapy comes from using a special instrument to break up the web-like scar tissue that limits the range of motion and causes pain. The main point of concern in delivering this treatment is that it can be harsh, and it’s not suitable for patients with bruising, skin infections, open wounds, and many other conditions. IASTM can also do more harm than good in some cases, and therapists must do a comprehensive assessment before performing IASTM on patients.
ASTYM
Background
Astym therapy is relatively new to the scene and started to be fully utilized in 1996 when Dr. Thomas L. Sevier, MD, FACSM, a prominent and double board-certified physician, and medical researcher, ushered the body of knowledge into mainstream therapy practices. The term “Astym” refers to A-stimulation, which activates the body’s natural healing response. Astym is used to stimulate the regeneration of soft tissue and the resorption of inappropriate scar
tissue/fibrosis and this therapeutic method have opened the door for new patient populations to find relief.
Application
Similar to the IASTM method, a hand-held instrument is used to apply mild to moderate pressure topically to soft tissue. Doing so helps muscles, tendons, and soft tissue to regenerate and naturally stimulates tissue turnover. Astym treatment strengthens body tissue and keeps people active because it trains the body to be resilient and cultivates adaptability to endure stress without injury.
Conclusion
The non-invasive nature of both of these treatments makes each technique an attractive option to patients that suffer from painful injuries. Astym therapy has a vast body of research that supports its effectiveness, and the method is firmly supported by science. The Astym technique has also been tested and proven in both clinical studies and treatment facilities. IASTM therapy has not yet been proven effective for musculoskeletal disorders but introducing controlled “microtrauma” to soft tissue as IASTM does, has worked well in some cases to produce a healthy local inflammatory response.
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Abigail Baker is a writer from Happy Writers, Co. in partnership with Stethoscope, one of the
leading stethoscope distributors.