IASTM soft tissue treatment in Toronto
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation: a smooth-edged tool to treat stiff, irritated tissue.
Overview
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM) uses a smooth, contoured tool glided over the skin to change how stiff or sensitive an area feels, for example around tendons and scar tissue.
It is followed by exercise to use the extra range of movement.
What is IASTM?
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilisation (IASTM) uses a smooth-edged stainless steel tool, stroked along the skin over a stiff or irritated area, usually with a lubricating lotion.
How does IASTM work?
The tool provides a strong sensory and mechanical stimulus to the skin, fascia and underlying tissue. It can reduce the feeling of stiffness and sensitivity in the short term and improve how freely the area moves.
How I use IASTM in treatment
IASTM is a short, targeted part of a session, followed by movement or loading. The aim is easier movement, not bruising, and more force is not better.
What happens in a session?
A few minutes of strokes over the area, at a pressure you are comfortable with, then exercises for the same area.
Who can IASTM help?
Tendon and muscle stiffness, for example around the Achilles, calf, forearm, thigh and lower back, often in runners and lifters.
Is IASTM safe, and what should I expect afterwards?
The skin may go red for a few hours and occasionally shows small marks. It is not used over broken skin, varicose veins, areas with poor sensation, a recent fracture, a blood clot, infection or active cancer in the area, and I will check for bleeding problems first.
Every plan starts with a full assessment, so the treatment fits what is actually driving your problem. IASTM soft tissue release is one tool within that plan, not the whole plan.
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Related programs of care
Where I practise
- Athlete's Care Yonge & Eglinton: Mon/Wed/Fri, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Push Pounds Downtown Toronto: Tue/Thu, 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- Runner's Academy St. Clair West: Mon/Wed/Fri, 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Country Lane Home office & virtual: Sat, By appointment only
Booking for a specific treatment? Mention it when you book so we can confirm which location suits it.
Before you book
Do I need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist in Ontario?
No. In Ontario you can book directly with a registered physiotherapist, no referral needed. Some extended health plans, and motor vehicle or workplace injury claims, have their own requirements, so it is worth checking your plan before your first visit.
Is physiotherapy covered by OHIP?
OHIP only covers physiotherapy for certain eligible groups at OHIP-funded clinics. Appointments with me are private, not billed to OHIP. Most extended health benefit plans cover registered physiotherapy, and you receive a receipt after every visit to submit to your plan.
Can my appointment be billed directly to my insurance?
Direct billing depends on the clinic and on your insurer. Ask when you book and the clinic will confirm whether they can bill your plan directly.
Other physiotherapy services
- Exercise therapy and strength rehabilitation
- Contemporary medical acupuncture and electroacupuncture
- Dry needling
- Joint mobilisation and spinal manipulation
- Trigger point and soft tissue release
- Static and dynamic silicone cupping
- Shockwave therapy
- Functional Movement Screen (FMS)
- Movement and running gait assessment
- Virtual and in-home physiotherapy
Book an appointment
Start with a proper assessment
A full history, a physical examination and a written plan you leave with. Book online at the clinic nearest you, send me a message, or call me directly.