Knee pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It can be caused by various factors, such as injury, overuse, arthritis, or degeneration of the knee joint. Knee pain can limit your mobility, function, and quality of life. If you are looking for a safe and effective way to relieve your knee pain and restore your knee health, you may want to consider IASTM. What is IASTM? IASTM stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization. It is a form of manual therapy that uses specially designed tools to manipulate the soft tissues around the knee joint. The tools are usually made of stainless steel with beveled edges and contours that can conform to different body anatomical locations and allows for deeper penetration. The tools are used to apply controlled pressure and friction to the skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia around the knee joint. How does IASTM work? IASTM works by creating microtrauma to the affected soft tissues, which stimulates the body's natural healing response. By breaking down scar tissue, adhesions, and inflammation, IASTM improves blood flow, oxygen delivery, nutrient exchange, and waste removal in the treated area. IASTM also activates nerve receptors that modulate pain perception and reduce muscle spasm. As a result, IASTM can help reduce knee pain, increase range of motion, improve strength, and enhance function. What are the benefits of IASTM? IASTM has been shown to be effective for various knee conditions, such as: - Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS): Also known as runner's knee, PFPS is a common cause of anterior knee pain that is often associated with tightness or imbalance of the muscles around the knee cap. IASTM can help loosen up the tight muscles, improve the alignment of the knee cap, and reduce the stress on the joint. - IT band syndrome: IT band syndrome is a condition that causes lateral knee pain due to inflammation or irritation of the iliotibial band (ITB), a thick band of fascia that runs from the hip to the shin along the outer side of the thigh. IASTM can help release the tension in the ITB, decrease the friction on the lateral knee, and restore normal movement patterns. - Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the cartilage and bone of the knee joint. It causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced function of the knee. IASTM can help slow down the progression of osteoarthritis by improving the circulation and lubrication of the joint, reducing inflammation and pain, and stimulating cartilage repair. - Post-surgical or traumatic scars: Scars can form after surgery or injury to the knee. They can affect the appearance and function of the knee by restricting movement, causing pain or sensitivity, or altering biomechanics. IASTM can help remodel scars by breaking down collagen fibers, improving elasticity and flexibility, reducing adhesions and contractures, and enhancing appearance. How is IASTM performed? IASTM is performed by a trained physical therapist who will assess your knee condition and determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment. The therapist will also explain the procedure and potential risks and benefits of IASTM. The therapist will then apply a lubricant to your skin and use one or more tools to glide over your skin in different directions and angles. The therapist will adjust the pressure and speed according to your tolerance and response. You may feel some discomfort or soreness during or after the treatment, but this is normal and temporary. The therapist will also give you some exercises and instructions to follow after the treatment to optimize your recovery. How often do I need IASTM? The frequency and duration of IASTM sessions depend on your individual condition and goals. Typically, you may need one or two sessions per week for four to six weeks. Each session may last 15 to 30 minutes. You should notice some improvement after each session, but it may take several sessions to achieve optimal results. Is IASTM safe? IASTM is generally safe when performed by a qualified physical therapist who follows proper protocols and precautions. However, like any treatment modality, there are some contraindications and potential side effects of IASTM that you should be aware of. Some of these include: - Open wounds or infections - Unhealed fractures
- Blood clots or bleeding disorders - Cancer or tumors - Pregnancy - Diabetes or poor circulation - Sensory impairment or nerve damage - Allergy or sensitivity to metal or lubricant Some of the common side effects of IASTM include: - Redness or bruising of the skin - Mild to moderate pain or soreness - Swelling or inflammation - Temporary numbness or tingling These side effects are usually mild and subside within a few hours or days. You can apply ice or heat to the treated area to reduce discomfort and speed up healing. You should also drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and eat a balanced diet to support your body's recovery. IASTM is a powerful and effective tool that can help you overcome your knee pain and improve your knee function. By combining IASTM with other physical therapy interventions, such as exercises, stretches, manual therapy, and education, you can achieve faster and better results. Don't let your knee pain stop you from enjoying your life. Contact us today to schedule your first IASTM session and see how we can help you get back on track.
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