Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
Mobile IASTM (Scraping) Therapy in Scottsdale
We come to you in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa.
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), often called scraping, is a manual therapy technique that uses specially designed tools to treat muscle tightness, scar tissue, and soft tissue restrictions. Applying controlled pressure with these tools lets your physical therapist target specific areas, helping improve mobility, decrease pain, and restore normal tissue function.
What Is IASTM?
IASTM uses stainless steel tools that glide over the skin. As the tool moves, your physical therapist can feel areas that are restricted and treat them with controlled pressure. This helps tissues move more freely and can make stretching and exercise more effective.
How IASTM Works
After an injury or surgery, soft tissues can become tight and less mobile. IASTM is thought to calm the nervous system to ease pain and muscle tension, while also improving how tissues glide over each other. It's normal to notice warmth, mild redness, or temporary tenderness in the treated area.
Benefits of IASTM
IASTM is commonly used for muscle tightness, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and scar tissue after surgery. It's also popular with athletes, including grapplers and weightlifters, who want to manage tightness and stay mobile through heavy training. Many patients notice improved range of motion and less tightness when IASTM is part of their treatment plan.
How Physical Therapy Helps You
IASTM is rarely used on its own. It's combined with stretching, strengthening, and corrective exercises for the best results. Easing tightness first can make it easier to move well during exercise. As a mobile practice, we come to you, whether that's your home, gym, or workplace.
If chronic tightness, pain, or scar tissue is holding you back, IASTM can help. Contact us for a free phone consultation and to schedule your initial appointment.
Call NowFrequently Asked Questions
IASTM should not be painful, though you may feel some pressure or mild discomfort as the tools glide over tight or restricted tissues. It’s normal to have slight redness or tenderness afterward, which usually fades within a day or two.
IASTM is commonly used for tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and soft tissue restrictions such as scar tissue after surgery. It's also helpful for athletes managing tightness and overuse injuries.
Massage uses only the hands, while IASTM uses specially designed tools that let your physical therapist apply focused pressure to specific areas of tightness or restriction.
Some people notice improvements after just one or two sessions, while chronic or complex conditions may require several treatments. Your therapist will create a plan based on your specific needs.
IASTM is safe for most people when performed by a trained physical therapist. It may not be recommended if you have certain skin conditions, open wounds, a bleeding disorder, or take blood thinners. Your physical therapist will review your health history before treatment.
Ready to Move Better and Perform at a Higher Level?
Whether you have questions or are ready to get started, reach out and we'll get back to you promptly. You can also call or text us directly to speak with Dr. Phil Yoon.