What Is IASTM Therapy?
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, commonly known as IASTM, is a specialized manual therapy technique that uses ergonomically designed stainless steel tools to detect and treat restrictions within the fascial system, muscles, and tendons. The tools allow the clinician to feel subtle changes in tissue texture — adhesions, scar tissue, and fibrotic areas — with a level of precision that is difficult to achieve with hands alone. Once identified, targeted strokes are applied to break down the restriction and stimulate the body's natural healing response. Dr. Green is trained in advanced IASTM techniques and applies them with the precision and clinical reasoning of a sports-focused practitioner.
How It Works With Chiropractic & Holistic Care
Scar tissue and fascial adhesions do not just cause local pain — they alter movement patterns throughout the entire kinetic chain. A restricted Achilles tendon changes how the knee tracks. A fibrotic hip flexor shifts how the lumbar spine loads. IASTM addresses these restrictions at their source, making chiropractic adjustments more effective and longer-lasting by removing the tissue-level barriers that pull joints back into dysfunction. Within a holistic care plan, IASTM complements rehabilitative exercise by restoring the tissue quality needed to actually benefit from strength and mobility work. Treating the joint without treating the tissue is like fixing the frame of a car without addressing the engine — IASTM ensures both are working together.
The Benefits
IASTM is one of the most effective tools for addressing chronic soft tissue conditions that have failed to resolve with rest or general treatment. It is particularly well suited for tendon issues such as Achilles tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, and lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), as well as plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and post-surgical scar tissue. Because the technique stimulates a controlled inflammatory response, it triggers the body to remodel the damaged tissue — replacing disorganized scar tissue with healthy, functional collagen. Patients typically notice improved range of motion, reduced localized pain, and better tissue quality over a series of treatments.
