Instrument Assisted Myofascial/
Soft Tissue Mobilization
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a specialized manual therapy technique used by physical therapists to detect and treat soft tissue dysfunction. Using ergonomically designed tools—such as Graston®, HawkGrips®, and IASTYM® instruments—therapists can apply targeted pressure to muscles, fascia, and tendons in a way that goes beyond what hands alone can achieve.
IASTM is particularly effective for treating chronic pain, limited mobility, post-surgical scarring, and overuse injuries. It is safe, evidence-based, and often used in both rehabilitation and athletic performance settings.
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While modern IASTM techniques have grown in popularity over the past few decades, the roots of instrument-assisted therapy trace back thousands of years. Traditional Eastern medicine, particularly Gua Sha, used blunt tools made of stone or bone to "scrape" the skin and promote healing.
The contemporary, evidence-informed version of IASTM emerged in the 1990s with the development of the Graston Technique®—a method that formalized tool-assisted soft tissue treatment using stainless steel instruments. Since then, companies like HawkGrips®,
Smart Tools®, and IASTYM® have refined and expanded the practice, incorporating it into physical therapy, sports
medicine, and rehabilitation programs across the globe.
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IASTM tools are designed to glide over the skin with
controlled pressure, helping to detect areas of tissue
restriction, scar tissue, or adhesions. The gentle scraping
or shearing force stimulates the body’s natural healing response, promotes circulation, and breaks up
dysfunctional tissue patterns.
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When applied appropriately, IASTM can:
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Encourage collagen remodeling
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Increase local blood flow
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Improve tissue flexibility
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Reduce pain and stiffness
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Support lymphatic drainage and cellular regeneration
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Patients and clinicians often choose IASTM for its ability to target hard-to-reach areas with precision. Some of the
primary benefits include:
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Pain relief for both acute and chronic conditions
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Improved range of motion and soft tissue mobility
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Breakdown of scar tissue post-surgery or after injury
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Reduction in muscle tightness and myofascial restrictions
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Faster recovery from overuse injuries such as tendonitis or plantar fasciitis
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Improved tissue healing by stimulating the body’s inflammatory repair process
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IASTM sessions are generally well-tolerated and may cause mild redness or soreness—a sign that blood flow is increasing and tissue healing is being stimulated. Some patients experience immediate relief, while others may require a few sessions to see improvement.
Your therapist will often pair IASTM with stretching, exercise, or neuromuscular retraining to reinforce functional movement and long-term healing.