Dynamic Physical Therapy
IASTM in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City
Restore Mobility and Reduce Pain with IASTM in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT
If persistent pain, limited mobility, or lingering injuries are holding you back, Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) may be the solution. This advanced technique, offered at Dynamic Physical Therapy in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT, is designed to break down scar tissue, improve flexibility, and restore movement. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or dealing with chronic muscle tightness, IASTM can help you get back to the activities you enjoy.
What is IASTM?
IASTM is a specialized manual therapy technique that uses handheld instruments to target soft tissue restrictions. Unlike traditional massage, which primarily affects surface-level muscles, IASTM reaches deep into muscles, tendons, and fascia to break down adhesions and scar tissue that contribute to pain and stiffness.
This technique works by creating controlled microtrauma in affected areas, triggering the body’s natural healing response. Increased blood flow and cellular activity help repair damaged tissues, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
Andrew Scheerenberger
Dynamic physical therapy is superior to any pt or sports medicine doctor I’ve gone to. The specialized exercises are just the beginning. The expertise with dry needling is unparalleled. If you have an area of locked up muscles that will fix the issue unlike any other treatment.
Ben Dolensky
I had an incredible experience at Dynamic Physical Therapy for over 2 years. Matt rehabbed me through two surgeries and Ariel helped me get over some chronic issues I had been struggling with for years. Highly recommend. Would not go anywhere else in Salt Lake.
Conditions Treated with IASTM
IASTM is effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Chronic pain and stiffness – Helps release tight muscles and restore natural movement.
- Tendonitis and overuse injuries – Treats conditions like Achilles tendonitis, tennis elbow, and rotator cuff injuries.
- Plantar fasciitis – Reduces pain and inflammation in the foot.
- Scar tissue and post-surgical adhesions – Breaks down restrictive tissue that limits mobility.
- Sports injuries – Assists in faster recovery from strains, sprains, and repetitive stress injuries.
- Neck, back, and shoulder pain – Relieves muscle tension and improves posture.
Key Benefits of IASTM
1. Reduced Pain and Improved Movement
- Releases muscle tension and restores flexibility.
- Increases range of motion by breaking down adhesions.
- Helps reduce chronic pain without the need for medication.
2. Accelerated Healing and Recovery
- Stimulates blood flow to speed up tissue repair.
- Enhances circulation and nutrient delivery to injured areas.
- Supports faster rehabilitation for athletes and active individuals.
3. Prevention of Future Injuries
- Improves tissue quality, making muscles and tendons more resilient.
- Corrects movement imbalances that contribute to overuse injuries.
- Strengthens soft tissues to support long-term mobility and function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does IASTM hurt?
IASTM should not be painful, but some mild discomfort or temporary redness may occur as the tissues are mobilized. Your therapist will adjust the pressure based on your tolerance.
How long does it take to see results?
Many patients notice improvements in mobility and pain relief within a few sessions. For chronic conditions, ongoing treatment combined with therapeutic exercises yields the best results.
How is IASTM different from Graston?
Graston is a specific brand of IASTM that uses patented tools and training. IASTM, as a broader technique, includes a variety of instruments and approaches tailored to individual needs.
Can IASTM help with post-surgical recovery?
Yes. IASTM can break down scar tissue and improve mobility after surgery, reducing stiffness and promoting a smoother recovery.
Expert Care Tailored to You
At Dynamic Physical Therapy, our team of skilled physical therapists is trained in IASTM and other evidence-based techniques. We develop customized treatment plans that combine IASTM with therapeutic exercises, stretching, and joint mobilization to maximize your recovery.
Matthew Nelson PT, DPT, TPS, AFDNS, AIB Cert – VR
Matt brings specialized expertise in integrating IASTM techniques with advanced manual therapy approaches. His background in trigger point dry needling and spine care enhances his ability to effectively use IASTM for treating complex conditions. Matt particularly excels at applying these techniques for athletic injuries and chronic pain conditions that haven’t responded to traditional treatments.
Jessica Bauerkemper PT, DPT, AIB CERT – VR
Jessica combines IASTM techniques with her expertise in Pilates and orthopedic care to address soft tissue restrictions and movement dysfunctions. Her approach focuses on restoring optimal tissue mobility while simultaneously retraining proper movement patterns. She specializes in using IASTM for post-operative rehabilitation and whiplash recovery to accelerate healing.
Anika Jansen, PT, DPT
Anika incorporates IASTM into her comprehensive treatment approach for orthopedic and vestibular conditions. Her specialized training allows her to effectively use these techniques to address tissue restrictions that may contribute to balance issues and movement limitations. She often combines IASTM with functional dry needling for enhanced outcomes.
Ciena Lavallee PT, DPT, Cert. MDT
Ciena integrates IASTM with her McKenzie Method expertise to effectively treat soft tissue restrictions that impact movement mechanics. Her methodical approach uses targeted IASTM techniques to complement her mechanical diagnosis and therapy framework. She specializes in applying these techniques to improve tissue mobility and function for patients with mechanical pain patterns.
Start Your Recovery Today
If you’re ready to move pain-free and regain your mobility, contact Dynamic Physical Therapy in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT today to schedule an evaluation. Our experienced therapists will assess your condition and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.