IASTM

Question 1

What are the three main types of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)?

Answer 1

Edge
Graston
Astym

Question 2

Why use soft tissue mobilization?

Answer 2

Less contradictions
able to use on a wider caseload (all ages, lax and hypermobile)
It completes traditional manual therapy
May use less visits
Improves other treatments
Not as threatening as joint mobilizations or manipulations

Question 3

What are the characteristics of Rapid Responders?

Answer 3

Only have loss of motion in one direction
Directional preference
Mostly sub-acute or acute
CPR, posterior derangements

Question 4

What are the characteristics of Slow Responders?

Answer 4

Multidirectional loss of motion
True frozen shoulder/hip
chronic

Question 5

What is the difference between scar tissue and adhesions?

Answer 5

Scar tissue is a normal result of inflammation and the healing process
Adhesions are the result of immobility and can occur w/out injury

Question 6

What are some advantages of IASTM?

Answer 6

hand saver for PT

may reduce tone faster than your hands

Question 7

What is the optimal angle of use for the edge tool?

Answer 7

20-30 degrees

Question 8

what do you look for when scanning with the edge tool?

Answer 8

increased resistance
‘grit’ (restrictions)
slow and lots of resistance (increased tone)
assess proximal to distal or vise versa

Question 9

How do you treat restrictions with IASTM?

Answer 9

short quick strokes in one direction until released

Question 10

How do you treat tone with IASTM?

Answer 10

using very superficially, slow strokes in one direction

Question 11

How long should you use a pattern?

Answer 11

1-2 mins but up to 5 mins for further ROM and pain improvement