A person receiving an Instrumental Assisted Soft tissue Mobilisation treatment at K-Flow Therapy

IASTM at K-Flow Therapy

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM)
Heated, vibrated, and stainless steel tools used selectively to support tissue behaviour and movement quality

What IASTM Is

IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation) is a manual therapy approach that uses specialised tools to deliver controlled mechanical and sensory input to soft tissue.

At K-Flow Therapy, IASTM is used to influence tissue sensitivity, circulation, and fascial glide, rather than to aggressively “break down” tissue. It can be particularly helpful in areas that feel persistently stiff, guarded, or slow to respond to hands-on treatment alone.

IASTM is applied selectively and conservatively, guided by movement assessment and clinical reasoning, not as a routine technique.

Tools Used at K-Flow Therapy

IASTM at K-Flow Therapy is performed using a combination of tools, selected based on tissue response, sensitivity, and treatment goals.

Heated & Vibrated IASTM Tools

I use heated and vibrated IASTM tools from Achedaway.

The addition of heat and vibration allows for:

  • improved local circulation and tissue readiness

  • reduced sensory threat in sensitive or guarded areas

  • gentler input without needing excessive pressure

  • broader neuromuscular influence

This option is particularly useful when tissue feels highly protective, irritable, or slow to settle.

Stainless Steel IASTM Tools

I also use traditional stainless steel IASTM tools when more precise, focal feedback is required.

These tools allow for:

  • clearer tactile feedback through the tissue

  • targeted input to specific restricted areas

  • fine control over pressure and direction

The choice of tool is always based on what the tissue needs, not a one-tool-fits-all approach.

Performed by a Certified Practitioner

All IASTM treatments are performed by Sam, a qualified remedial massage therapist with formal training in instrument-assisted techniques.

Sam holds:

  • RockBlade® IASTM Certification – RockTape

This training emphasises safe tool handling, appropriate pressure selection, and integrating IASTM into a broader treatment plan focused on movement quality and recovery.

My Clinical View on IASTM

IASTM is not about force or tissue damage.

From a clinical perspective, its value lies in providing a clear but controlled sensory stimulus that helps the nervous system reassess an area that has become persistently tight, sensitive, or protective.

Using heated, vibrated, or stainless steel tools allows the stimulus to be matched to the tissue, rather than forcing the tissue to tolerate a single style of input.

I use IASTM to:

  • reduce excessive tissue sensitivity

  • improve local circulation and glide

  • support better movement awareness

  • prepare tissue for movement or load

It is best viewed as a bridge technique, particularly when hands alone are not providing enough feedback or when deep focal pressure is not appropriate.

IASTM, Fascial Glide, and Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

From a tissue behaviour perspective, one proposed mechanism behind the effects of IASTM relates to hyaluronic acid (HA) within the fascial layers.

HA is a key component of connective tissue that contributes to tissue hydration and glide between layers. With prolonged immobility, repetitive loading, or sustained postural stress, HA can become more viscous and less evenly distributed. When this occurs, tissues may feel stiff, sticky, or resistant to movement rather than structurally “tight.”

Controlled mechanical input, combined with heat and vibration, may help improve HA mobility and reduce local viscosity, a process often referred to clinically as HA liquefaction. This does not involve breaking tissue down, but rather supporting a more fluid connective tissue environment that allows layers to slide more freely.

Clinically, this may help explain why some clients experience:

  • rapid changes in tissue glide

  • improved ease of movement without aggressive pressure

  • stiffness that feels more global rather than focal

While research in this area is still developing, these effects are commonly observed clinically, particularly in clients with load-related stiffness, postural holding patterns, or reduced movement variability.

When IASTM Is Commonly Used

IASTM may be considered when assessment shows:

  • stiffness that returns quickly after treatment

  • reduced tissue glide or a “draggy” sensation

  • post-training or post-competition tightness

  • load-related discomfort rather than acute injury

  • protective tone or movement hesitation

It is commonly used with athletes, gym-goers, runners, cyclists, and clients managing repetitive or postural load.

How IASTM Is Used During Treatment

IASTM is never used in isolation.

When appropriate, it may be combined with:

  • remedial or sports massage

  • myofascial release

  • dry needling

  • cupping

  • light corrective or activation exercises

This ensures changes in tissue response carry over into meaningful improvements in movement, not just short-term relief.

What It Feels Like

IASTM typically feels like a firm gliding or scraping sensation over the skin.

Mild redness is common and temporary.
Excessive bruising is not a goal and is intentionally avoided.

Most clients report improved ease of movement or reduced stiffness following treatment.

Is IASTM Right for You?

If you experience recurring tightness, stiffness that limits movement, or tissue that feels slow to recover despite training or massage, IASTM may be a useful part of your treatment.

During your session, I will assess your movement and explain whether IASTM is appropriate for your presentation.