Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is really a great manual therapy skill to have in your toolbox.
However, there are many myths and misconceptions regarding IASTM that I really believe are holding people back from getting started and seeing the benefits of IASTM in their practice.
In this video, Erson Religioso and I discuss some of the myths of IASTM that led us to develop our online educational program to teach you how to start performing IASTM:
4 Myths of IASTM
To summarize some of the myths of IASTM discussed in the video:
Is IASTM Expensive to Learn?
IASTM does not have to be expensive to learn or perform. You do not need to spend tons of money on certification courses and crazy expensive tools. Erson and I have a quick and easy IASTM online course that will get you started right away. We have a bunch of recommendations on tools for around $100 or less. We even talk about how you can get useable tools for as little as $5!
Is IASTM Complicated to Learn?
IASTM does not have to be complicated to learn. If you are already performing manual therapy or massage, you know everything you need to know to start using IASTM. We’ll show you how easy it can be.
Is IASTM Painful or Aggressive?
IASTM should not make people black and blue! Let me actually rephrase that for emphasis, IASTM is not about being so aggressive that you leave large purple marks and essentially produce superficial capillary hemorrhage. Some redness and petechia are OK, but the over-aggressive black and blue is not ideal. I rarely even use IASTM aggressively enough to even leave petechia.
Does IASTM Give Feedback?
IASTM tools do not provide as much feedback as my hands. IASTM is a way to compliment your hands, it is not a replacement! In fact, it gives you a different feel that really helps your palpation skills.
Learn How to Start Performing IASTM Today!
Erson Religioso and I’s online IASTM program will teach you everything you need to know to start using IASTM today! IASTM does not have to be complicated to learn or expensive to start using. Learn everything about IASTM including the history, efficacy, tool options, different stroke patterns, basic techniques, advanced techniques, and how to integrate IASTM into your current manual therapy skills and treatment programs!
