Everyone is talking about IASTM. What is it?

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation

IASTM is a technique that works like a standard massage, but specialized instruments are used in place of Massage Therapists hands. These instruments allow more direct treatment of the soft tissues involved with movement.

Benefits of IASTM:

-Pain Reduction

-Scar Tissue Management

-Faster Healing of Injuries

-Enhanced Muscle Function

How it works:

IASTM affects the vascular response to the injured soft tissue, through increasing the blood flow. IASTM works at the cellular level. The inflammatory response initiated through micro trauma to the affected tissues results in increased fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, maturation and the remodelling of unorganized collagen fibre matrix following IASTM application. Which result in a breakdown of scar tissues, adhesions and facial restrictions.

Is IASTM the right treatment?

For patients experiencing acute or chronic pain, IASTM can help improve blood flow and stimulate healing in and around the pain area, improving function after one to four treatments.


IASTM is incorporated into most of our Sports Massages here at Bluewater Wellness. Make sure to ask your Massage Therapist if you'd like them to incorporate it into your next Sports Massage!