Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a method clinicians use to effectively locate and treat areas of soft tissue dysfunction. Therapists use instruments to detect and treat areas of “scar tissue” or adhesions in muscles, tendons, and ligaments which can reduce range of motion and cause pain. Instruments effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. This innovative soft tissue, instrument-based treatment is designed to help our patients feel better – fast!
Phoenix Physical Therapy is experienced in multiple types of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization techniques, including:
- Sound Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (SASTM)
- Fluid Motion Soft Tissue Tools (FMST)
- Graston Technique®
The SASTM method is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. The design of these instruments provides the clinician with the ability to locate restrictions through sound waves. This allows the clinician to locate and treat the affected area with the appropriate amount of pressure.
If you suffer from soft tissue adhesions caused by surgery, immobilization, or repeated strain, you may regain full functional restoration through the SATSM method. By introducing “controlled micro-trauma” to the affected soft tissue, sometimes referred to as muscle scraping, the stimulation of a local inflammatory response forms. This process ‘initiates healing’ in the re-absorption of excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities, resulting in remodeling of affected soft tissue structures. Adhesions within the soft tissue are broken down allowing full functional restoration to occur.
FMST tools have proven successful in reducing scar tissue problems from old injuries and/or surgeries and help achieve greater results with pain control, joint and muscle flexibility.
The Graston Technique® therapy allows for better discovery and treatment because it uses a stainless steel instrument that glides along the muscle, tendon or ligament. By applying the correct mount of pressure, the instrument is able to detect the location of the scar tissue or restrictions faster and easier. The instrument can then be used to “breakup” this restriction. Stretching exercises are used to promote re-alignment of the fibers into the normal pattern of healthy tissue. Combining these two reduces scar tissue and promotes better movement and mobility.
The Graston Technique® has been effective in the treatment of:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Cervical pain
- De Quervain’s syndrome
- Epicondylitis/osis
- Fibromyalgia
- IT band syndrome
- Joint Sprain
- Lower back pain
- Muscle strain
- Myofascial pain
- Nerve entrapment
- Painful scars
- Plantar fasciitis
- Post-fracture pain (healed)
- Shin splints
- Tendinitis/tendonosis
- Trigger finger
- Women’s health (post-mastectomy and Caesarean scarring)
Historically, the Graston Technique® has had positive outcomes in 75-90 percent of all conditions treated.
Only clinicians who have been trained and accredited in the Graston Technique® Basic Training course are qualified to obtain the Graston Technique® instruments and apply the technique to treat patients.
Ellicott City Services
Request an Appointment
11100 Barnsley Way, Unit E
Marriottsville, Maryland, 21104
Phone: (410) 988-4968
Fax: (410) 734-2027
Email: ellicottcity@phx-pt.com
New Patient Info
Welcome to the Phoenix family! You’re one step closer to feeling like you again. You can expect superior care at each step of your rehabilitation journey, starting with scheduling your first appointment. After scheduling your first appointment, we encourage you to download and fill out your patient forms and insurance information.
Meet The Team
-
Amanda Blevins, PT, DPT, CD
Multi Site Clinic Director, Physical Therapist
View Profile
A large part of what sets Phoenix apart is our team. We are proud to employ highly trained professionals who are not only skilled at what they do, but are passionate about providing you with individualized care. Our Phoenix team members are what makes achieving quality clinical outcomes possible through expertise and a personal approach.
Welcome to Ellicott City
Welcome! The Phoenix Physical Therapy - Ellicott City team is ready to help patients recover, recharge and rise. We develop a customized therapy plan for each patient to get them back to enjoying their favorite activities. Our experienced team is committed to providing exceptional care in a professional environment. Whether you’re looking to prevent or treat an injury, recover from a recent illness or recuperate from surgery, schedule an appointment with our Ellicott City clinic and take advantage of our Physical Therapy services...
I lived in horrible pain from a frozen shoulder for a few months before being referred to physical therapy in hopes of avoiding surgery. I can’t thank a Mark and Danny enough for their patience, kindness, compassion, encouragement and expertise. Without them, I would NEVER have been successful persevering through over six months of therapy (especially in the early days when I cried in about one of every two or three sessions). The fact that they cared so much about me as a patient and as a person made me want to work harder and never give up.
Because of therapy, with Mark and Danny, I have my life back. I don’t live in pain. I can do daily activities, exercise, and play sports. I can’t thank them enough for the difference they have made in my life.
I have heard it said that a great physical therapist is hard to find, difficult to part with, and impossible to forget. Fortunately, for me, they weren’t hard to find, but they sure are difficult to part with, and I’ll never forget them! I am forever grateful for physical therapy with Mark and Danny at Phoenix!”
Flexible scheduling allows for social distancing
Regular cleaning and sanitation of all clinic surfaces
Facemasks must be worn by all Phoenix staff and are recommended for all patients
Screening questionnaire and temperature checks prior to entering clinics
6 feet of social distancing throughout the clinics