Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Helping injured tissue move, heal and feel like yours again.
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) uses smooth, specially shaped stainless steel tools to work with muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. The tools glide over the skin and help me find and treat areas of restriction more precisely than hands alone.
I’m trained in the proSTM upper and lower extremity courses with Dr. Nik Vizniak of ProHealth in New Westminster, and I’m certified in Graston Technique. Both follow the same principles; the proSTM tools are the ones I use in my practice.
My proSTM kit. Photos and diagrams on this page courtesy of ProHealth.
About my tools
I love that my tools are made close to home. The proSTM Blade and TriStar were designed by Dr. Nik Vizniak, a local doctor and educator who teaches at massage therapy and naturopathic colleges here in BC and has done a great deal to strengthen education for practitioners in our province.
Each tool has a range of edges and curves, so I can match the tool to the area: the long, sweeping Blade for larger areas like the back, thigh and calf, and the compact TriStar for smaller, contoured places like the elbow, wrist, ankle and foot.
Each edge and curve is shaped for a different part of the body. Diagram courtesy of ProHealth.
Learn more about the proSTM tools
How it works
The tool works through the skin to the fascia and soft tissue below. Image courtesy of ProHealth.
The smooth steel edges let me feel areas of restriction and apply precise, gentle pressure to the tissue beneath the skin. This increases local circulation and gives the nervous system new information, which can help ease pain and restore movement.
Research suggests IASTM may help reduce pain and improve range of motion, though exactly how it works is still being studied.
What it can help with
IASTM is one of my favourite tools for injuries, especially when a client wants to get back to moving. I use it for:
- Sprains and strains, including recent ones such as a rolled ankle
- Tendinitis and tendinopathy, such as tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Achilles and knee tendons
- Plantar fascia and foot pain
- Stiff, restricted areas after an injury has healed
- Stubborn fascial tension and scar tissue
I’ve seen clients arrive unable to put weight on a sprained ankle and leave walking more comfortably, with much less pain. Every body is different and results vary, but it’s one of the reasons I love this work.
The Blade and TriStar, ready for back work.
My approach: effective, not painful
The TriStar on the upper shoulder.
IASTM has a reputation for being intense. My style is different. I warm my tools before I use them, so they feel soothing on the skin, and I work at a pressure that feels productive, never punishing. I don’t believe healing has to hurt.
Like all my work, it’s fascia-informed and trauma-informed. I often pair the tools with active movement and breath, so you’re part of the treatment rather than lying still while something is done to you. I check in throughout, and you can ask me to ease off or stop at any time.
IASTM is rarely a whole session on its own. I usually blend it with myofascial release and massage, then finish with simple stretches and strengthening exercises to support your recovery at home.
What to expect and aftercare
The treated area may look pink or red for a short time afterwards, which is a normal sign of increased circulation. Occasionally there may be some light bruising.
After your session:
- Ice the treated area for 10 to 15 minutes to help prevent bruising
- Move gently and often, within comfort
- Drink water and rest well
- Do your home exercises. The stretch and strengthening exercise I give you help the tissue remodel and get stronger
The bigger picture
I’m a forever learner, and I’m passionate about helping my clients understand their own bodies. Inspired in part by Rudolf Steiner and a holistic view of health, I believe the body holds deep wisdom and a remarkable ability to heal.
Often it needs only a little support: the right touch, heat and ice, stretching and strengthening, good movement, nourishing food, sunlight, rest, and care for the spirit. IASTM is one way I help clear the path, so your body can do what it already knows how to do.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
It shouldn’t. With warmed tools and comfortable pressure, most clients find it surprisingly pleasant. Tell me any time you’d like less pressure.
Is it the same as Graston?
It follows the same principles. I’m certified in Graston Technique and trained in proSTM, and I use the proSTM tools in my practice.
Can it be used on a recent injury?
Yes, in many cases. For recent sprains and strains I use a much lighter touch, and the work focuses on reducing pain and helping you move.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the injury. Recent sprains often respond within a few sessions; long-standing tendinitis usually takes several, alongside home exercises.
Is it right for me?
Please tell me if you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, fragile skin, varicose veins, an infection or open wound in the area, cancer in the area, or are pregnant. IASTM may not be suitable, or I may adjust the treatment.
Book a session
If an injury is slowing you down, I’d love to help you get moving again.