IASTM Stainless Steel Tools

Stainless Steel Tools for Myofascial Techniques

IASTM is instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization. Similar to gua sha, the therapist uses a “scraper” to treat the tissue, but here is where the similarities end.

In short, the IASTM technique is used in rehabilitation to promote a fibroblastic proliferation for connective tissue remodeling and cells realigning. This is done with metal instruments (some IASTM modalities use plastic) by means of rubbing/scraping the tissues with emollient on it. Despite the similarity with gua sha, IASTM takes roots in friction massage developed by James Cyriax. It is, at least, believed to be like that.

Another great thing about stainless steel tools is the resonation the therapist feels in their hands. The instruments can magnify what the hands feel such as scars and lesions under the skin, providing excellent tissue evaluation with a subsequent treatment. This is a reason why plastic tools are inferior to metal ones.

What differentiates a good instrument from a generic one?

Contours, edges, weight, ergonomics – These four factors should be taken into account when choosing an instrument for your practice.

Seemingly similar instruments may behave differently in the hands of therapist.
Some tools are too bulky, causing therapists’ hands to feel fatigue fast, while some tools are too lightweight which isn’t good either.

If the treatment edges are not thoroughly tested in clinical setting, a therapeutic response of the tissues may fail expectations.