What is ASTYM?

We asked Vanda Dang a local physical therapist to give us some insight on new therapy modalities. What is Astym and IASTM and how does it work for tendinitis?

It is an evidence-based therapy approach to treat chronic tendon disorders, scar tissue and fibrosis.  Scar tissue and fibrosis may occur as a result from trauma, surgery or repetitive overuse injuries.  This unique therapy process stimulates the body’s healing response in order to absorb and remodel scar tissue to regenerate tendon health.  Astym and IASTM uses instruments along the skin to identify the scarred or fibrotic areas and stimulate the healing response.  Diagnoses such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, plantarfascitis, Achilles tendinitis, shin splints, patellar tendinitis, sprains and strains, and IT band syndrome have been treated successfully with the Astym and IASTM systems.  Patients receive a customized stretching and exercise program to work in conjunction with therapy to allow the body to rebuild healthy tissue, and the treatment encourages patients to remain active with their lifestyle.  Most patients experience a significant change in symptoms after the first 3-4 treatments.
-Vanda Dang, MPT, Astym Certified