The use of stainless-steel instruments during therapy is thought to enhance the mechanical advantage of the therapist providing the treatment to allow for deeper penetration of muscles, ligaments, and fascia. The use of IASTM techniques is thought to assist in the release and breakdown of scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions (Cheatam et al., 2016). IASTM has been shown to improve joint range of motion in humans as well as to improve collagen repair and fibroblast proliferation in laboratory settings (Cheatam et al., 2016).
Cheatham, S. W., Lee, M., Cain, M., & Baker, R. (2016). The efficacy of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization: a systematic review. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 60(3), 200–211.
