Effects of Instrument-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Musculoskeletal Properties

Abstract

PurposeInstrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) has been reported to improve joint range of motion (flexibility). However, it is not clear whether this change in the joint range of motion is accompanied by any alterations in the mechanical and/or neural properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of IASTM in plantarflexors and Achilles tendon on the mechanical and neural properties of them.MethodsThis randomized, controlled, crossover study included 14 healthy volunteers (11 men and 3 women, 21–32 yr). IASTM was performed on the skin over the posterior part of the lower leg for 5 min and targeted the soft tissues (gastrocnemii, soleus, and tibialis posterior muscles; overlying deep fascia; and Achilles tendon). As a control condition, the same participants rested for 5 min between pre- and postmeasurements without IASTM on a separate day. The maximal ankle joint dorsiflexion angle (dorsiflexion range of motion), the peak passive torque (stretch tolerance), and the ankle joint stiffness (slope of the relationship between passive torque and ankle joint angle) during the measurement of the dorsiflexion range of motion and muscle stiffness of the triceps surae (using shear wave elastography) were measured before and immediately after the interventions.ResultsAfter IASTM, the dorsiflexion range of motion significantly increased by 10.7% ± 10.8% and ankle joint stiffness significantly decreased by −6.2% ± 10.1%. However, peak passive torque and muscle stiffness did not change. All variables remained unchanged in the repeated measurements of controls.ConclusionIASTM can improve joint range of motion, without affecting the mechanical and neural properties of the treated muscles.

The feasibility and impact of instrument-assisted manual therapy (IAMT) for the lower back on the structural and functional properties of the lumbar area in female soccer players: a randomised, placebo-controlled pilot study design

“…This randomised placebo-controlled pilot study will evaluate the feasibility of the planned measurements and generate the first information about the underlying effects of IAMT on structural and functional tissue properties of the lower back as recently reported in a preexisting study on the lower leg [32]. Subjects will be recruited by a person who is not involved in the testing.…”

“…This kind of therapy is supposed to increase range of motion and functionality because of improved blood flow accompanied by increased tissue temperature, pain reduction as well as generated pressure, tensile, and shear forces. However, the underlying mechanisms behind these processes are still unknown, but increased microcirculation and altered expression of cytokines in the ground substance, particularly growth factors and inflammatory mediators that enhance regeneration and wound healing, are discussed [21,[30][31][32].…”

An Evidence-to-Practice Review on the Efficacy of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

“…Soft tissue injuries are common among the general and athletic populations and these injuries can lead to acute and chronic loss of function, adhesions, and pain. [2][3][4] Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is the use of specially designed instruments that provide a mobilizing effect to soft tissue to help with decreasing pain and improving range of motion (ROM). [2][3][4] Over the years, IASTM has become a popular treatment for soft tissue injuries involving myofascial restrictions and in increasing pain thresholds.…”

“…[2][3][4] Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is the use of specially designed instruments that provide a mobilizing effect to soft tissue to help with decreasing pain and improving range of motion (ROM). [2][3][4] Over the years, IASTM has become a popular treatment for soft tissue injuries involving myofascial restrictions and in increasing pain thresholds. 5 This therapy has been utilized over a variety of different treatment areas, almost all of which involving a musculoskeletal injury or pathology.…”

“…5 This therapy has been utilized over a variety of different treatment areas, almost all of which involving a musculoskeletal injury or pathology. [2][3][4] During the healing process of an injury or pathology, the human body will respond with an initial inflammatory response, followed by a proliferation phase, and then finally maturation of the new tissue. During these last two phases, IASTM is traditionally utilized as an intervention/modality in order to aid the realignment of tissue, collagen elasticity, and increase perfusion of tissues to promote healing.…”