ASTYM and IASTM are two very different concepts, with both having their place in specific situations.
IASTM stands for ‘instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization’ and uses gua sha tools to perform massage. Through these tools, one can target specific regions of the body more effectively and ultimately produce a result you can’t arrive it through hand massage. You may have heard of IASTM through branded techniques like Graston, Fibroblaster, and others. In some cases, West-based gua sha techniques may also be referred to as instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization.
Through IASTM therapy, a practitioner performs very targeted trauma to the tissue. It is believed through this trauma, the body’s natural healing mechanisms are activated, stagnancy is decreased, and circulation is increased. Some of these techniques can be aggressive although most are quite gentle. Many patients find the results to be extremely effective and massage therapists or practitioners may offer it as an alternative to existing treatments.
Stainless Steel Gua Sha Massage Bundle for IASTM therapy (4 Piece Set) – Lierre
ASTYM is a little different, working from a cellular level to stimulate a regeneration of healthy soft tissues. It is also relatively safe and effective, targeting unhealthy tissue to resorb and remodel stagnancy, scar tissue, and fibrosis. Between ASTYM and IASTM, our preference is IASTM as this is where our knowledge base is most thorough. IASTM has some excellent benefits, available via stainless steel IASTM tools. That said, like you would with ASTYM, you need a skilled, experienced, and knowledgeable person to perform IASTM on you. Thankfully, the basics of technique are learnable.
Before you pick up the first of your IASTM tools, apply oil to the targeted area to minimize irritation. Then, take the smooth side of your tool and press it down, stroking 4-6 inches along an acupuncture meridian pathway. This is your run-of-the-mill basic approach that you will want to maintain. If you don’t learn anything else before your first treatment, keep these words in mind. Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization has a place in gua sha, chiropractic work, physical therapy, and more.
What is the difference between Iastm and Astym?
As an alternative medicine practitioner, we know a lot goes into building an effective pain management and rehabilitation treatment plan. Ideally, you want lasting results. Despite what science may prove and disprove, there is no one-size-fits-all. Each of our bodies are unique in reaction and response to certain treatments. ASTYM and IASTM may both be additional treatments to offer to someone who is not responding favorably to other approaches. They fall into the same category as cupping therapy, flossing, and others.
Are you interested in purchasing IASTM tools to get you started on your journey with this new treatment? Shop them with Lierre.ca and see a wide array of products, tools, and gua sha accessories you can pull from to enhance your practice.
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