IASTM Performed by Experienced Chiropractors in Wichita, KS
Content reviewed by Dr. Rachel Sparks, DC | FAKTR, Functional and Kinetic Treatement with Rehabilitiation Certified; Graston, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Certified
IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization) is an advanced therapeutic technique commonly used by experienced chiropractors to release tight muscles and fascia by the use a medical-grade, stainless steel tool “scraped” along the skin.
There are many techniques that utilize some form of stainless steel or rubber-based instrument including Graston, FAKTR, IASTM, ASTYM. Often, these various techniques become referred to as ‘blading’ or ‘scraping’ due to the nature of the techniques.
How Does the IASTM Scraping Tool Work?
The scraping tool works in two different ways: locally and neurologically.
Locally
By repeatedly scraping the FAKTR tool along an area, our chiropractors can see tiny red dots called ‘Petechiae.’ Locally, these tiny red dots are an indication that blood is returning to the area.
This local breakdown of the tissue creates a positive, PRO-inflammatory response which induces a healing effect in the tissue by stimulating new collagen and elastin production. Collagen and elastin comprise our soft tissue structures.
Neurologically
On a neurological level, the scraping tool allows the brain and body to reconnect better. The brain realizes the area at hand is being addressed, which in turn allows the brain to relax and release the neurological tension being held within the area.
Common Symptoms Relieved Through Chiropractic IASTM
Chiropractic IASTM in Wichita, Kansas, can help reduce and eliminate various neuromuscular pains and problems. Below are some of the common ailments and diagnoses that IASTM can address.
- Neck pain and spasms
- Muscle spasms
- Tight muscles
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Achilles tendonitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Elbow tendonitis
- Headaches
- Shoulder pain
- Knee pain
- Shin splints
- Hip pain
- Carpal tunnel
Why You Should Choose Our Chiropractors for IASTM
If you are experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, please do not hesitate to call us. Our professional chiropractors in Wichita, KS, can provide you with high-quality chiropractic services that will help reduce your pain, getting you back to your normal routine in no time. If you are looking for trustworthy chiropractors that are highly trained in IASTM, please contact ICT Muscle & Joint Clinic to schedule an IASTM appointment with our expert chiropractic doctors.
Frequently Asked Questions About IASTM
Why is it Called Blading or Scraping?
During a session, the chiropractor or physical therapist will use an IASTM tool, which looks like a blade, and scrapes it repeatedly along an area which is holding unwanted tension.
Why Would I Try Scraping?
Scraping can work both therapeutically and diagnostically. The scraping tool allows a chiropractor or physical therapist to broadly scan the problematic area to quickly pinpoint where tight or stringy muscles, scar tissue, adhesions, restricted fascia, and trigger points may be holding the source of the painful tension. If you would like problem areas within your muscles to be addressed by a professional chiropractor, IASTM might be a great fit for you.
Can I Get Just Scraped?
Yes. Now stating this, we only do that if it is in your best interest after an initial exam. Often, we do not find this to be the end-all-be-all for a person, but from time to time, it can be. Our goal is to provide the most effective chiropractic approach in reducing and eliminating pain for the people of Wichita, KS. If scraping is all we must do, then that is what we will do.
Why Did I get a Bruise from IASTM?
This is unfortunate! Regrettably, this occurs from time to time. However, this is never our chiropractor’s goal! Once someone is bruised, the treatment progress slows down to allow the area to recover. Our chiropractic doctors are highly trained at realizing the warning signs that a session of scraping needs to end.
Which Technique Does ICTMJC’s Chiropractors Prefer?
Our experienced chiropractors prefer a FAKTR (Functional and Kinetic Treatment with Rehab) concept. Some techniques focus on long and harsh treatment plans, which, in our opinion, should not be the goal. FAKTR focuses on scraping the area while performing a task. The task might be a simple but painful movement, such as opening a door or performing a certain lift like a loaded squat.
The concept of FAKTR is based on the fact that we are moving beings and should be assessed and treated as such. By assessing and treating throughout the motion, we can produce faster and more effective results.
Where or What Can Be Scraped?
These “scraping” tools can be utilized on many different soft tissue sources including muscles, skin, fascia, scar tissue, ligaments, nerves, and tendons. Anywhere on the body with these types of tissues can most likely be scraped by our expert chiropractors in Wichita, KS.