IASTM & MANUAL THERAPY
Sometimes improving how a joint moves means paying attention to the muscles and soft tissues surrounding it too.
At Trinity Chiropractic Center, Dr. Branden may incorporate Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) or hands-on manual therapy alongside chiropractic care when he feels the surrounding tissues would benefit from additional attention.
These techniques are used as supportive tools within your overall care plan rather than as a one-size-fits-all treatment.
INSTRUMENT-ASSISTED CARE
IASTM stands for Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization.
It is a form of manual therapy that uses specially designed instruments to work along muscles and other soft tissues.
Dr. Branden uses Graston Technique instruments when appropriate. The tool allows him to work more specifically over areas of soft-tissue tightness or restriction while adjusting the amount of pressure based on the area being treated and your comfort level.
IASTM may be used around areas where muscle tightness or soft-tissue restriction is affecting comfortable movement.
HANDS-ON SUPPORT
Not every area needs an instrument.
Dr. Branden also uses hands-on manual therapy to work with muscles surrounding the joints being addressed during chiropractic care.
This may include focused pressure or soft-tissue work to help an area relax, reduce muscular tension, and make movement more comfortable.
The exact approach depends on what he finds and how the area responds during the visit.
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Joints do not move in isolation. Muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues all contribute to how an area moves and feels.
When those tissues are tight or sensitive, Dr. Branden may address them as part of the overall visit rather than focusing only on the joint.
PART OF YOUR CHIROPRACTIC CARE
You won't automatically receive IASTM or manual therapy at every visit.
Dr. Branden may incorporate one of these techniques when he believes the muscles or soft tissues surrounding a joint are contributing to restriction, tension, or discomfort.
As those areas change, the type or amount of soft-tissue work may change too.
Used selectively based on your findings
Can be combined with chiropractic adjustments
Pressure and technique are individualized
May change as your movement and comfort change
WHAT TO EXPECT
You may notice pressure as Dr. Branden works over a tight or sensitive area.
Let us know how the area feels. Pressure can be adjusted throughout the treatment.
Some people may notice mild tenderness or sensitivity in the area afterward, particularly following more focused soft-tissue work.
CARE THAT WORKS TOGETHER
Chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue work, and other supportive services can be used together based on your findings and goals.
