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Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

Soft-tissue injuries occur from strains, sprains, a blow that results in a ruptured blood vessel or bruising, or from overuse of a body part. Evolution Physical Therapy utilizes Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) to locate and treat patients with soft tissue dysfunction effectively. 

Where Can I Get Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization?

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization is available for patients at all of our physical therapy locations. Find your nearest clinic to schedule an appointment for IASTM today!

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What is Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization?

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization is a soft tissue treatment which utilizes various tools that enable the clinician to efficiently locate and treat individuals diagnosed with soft tissue dysfunction. IASTM is performed with instruments that are specifically designed to detect and treat fascial restrictions or increased muscular tone. IASTM is a great adjunct to traditional physical therapy interventions prescribed to correct biomechanical deficiencies.

The introduction of controlled microtrauma to affected soft tissue structure causes the stimulation of a local inflammatory response. Microtrauma initiates reabsorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue and facilitates a cascade of healing activities, resulting in remodeling of affected soft tissue structures. Adhesions within the soft tissue which may have developed as a result of surgery, immobilization, repeated strain or other mechanisms, are broken down allowing full functional restoration to occur.

Benefits of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

IASTM focuses on specific areas of the body to relieve stiffness and improve range of motion. This allows you to effectively perform exercises recommended by your physical therapist to strengthen the injured area, promote healing, and restore normal function. The main benefits of IASTM include:

Who Should Consider Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization?

Anyone with soft-tissue pain, injuries, or conditions can benefit from IASTM therapy. Ideal candidates include athletes, warehouse workers and others, who perform a repeated motion several times per day. IASTM is clinically proven to achieve faster and better outcomes in treating the following:

Clinical Applications of IASTM

IASTM tools have been shown to effectively break down fascial restrictions and scar tissue. The ergonomic design of these instruments provides the clinician with the ability to locate restrictions, treat the affected area with the appropriate amount of pressure, and to treat the specific direction of restriction. Studies have also shown clinical benefits of IASTM, including improvements in range of motion, strength, and pain perception following treatment.
TJ Melham et al. found that IASTM significantly improved range of motion in a college football player following 7 weeks of IASTM and physical therapy. Melham et al. found that scar tissue surrounding the lateral malleolus was reduced and remodeled structurally following IASTM application. Wilson et al found improvement in pain reduction and impairment scale at 6 and 12 weeks following IASTM application for patellar tendonitis.

Learn More About Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization at Your Nearest Evolution Location

IASTM works like a standard massage, however, our doctors of physical therapy use specialized equipment to allow more direct treatment. Contact us to learn more about IASTM today!

We’re Making People Move Again

At Evolution Physical Therapy, we are committed to providing you with high-quality, personalized care for your injury or condition. Take a look at our reviews to read about other patients’ results after treatment!

Excellent
4.9
I came to Evolution with a mild knee pain. My case is more complicated because of other health issues that I have.Ana Lee is working with me and she spends the whole therapy time with me because of my other health issues. She is doing a wonderful job on me and my pain has gone 99% and I am getting stronger as times pass. This is my forth time that I am coming to Evolution for Physical Therapy and I have had excellent experience each time!
Jen is the BEST! She is so knowledgeable, patient and caring!
Response from the owner: Thanks for the wonderful review, Liora! Glad to hear you've had a great experience here!
I am beyond lucky to have Kara as my physical therapist. I could not have asked for better care. Kara is THE BEST, so knowledgeable, so patient, so motivating, and truly cares about her patients development and well-being. Kara has made physical therapy something I look forward to doing, which I didn’t think was possible. Cannot recommend her enough! Thank you Kara for helping me in my recovery after knee surgery, I hope you know the difference you make!
Response from the owner: Dear Nelly,Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words! I'm so glad to hear that Kara could make a difference in your rehabilitation process. Wishing you continued progress ahead!
By far the best Physical Therapist in LA. Very attentive and extremely knowledgeable in recovery and rehabilitation. Receptionist are professional and ready to help! Carole is the GOAT 🐐 and is untouchable! I would recommend anyone that needs to get recover to pull up! Ask for Carole🥂
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience with our team and especially with Carole. Providing top-notch care and guidance in recovery and rehabilitation is our passion, and we're happy to hear that you found our services beneficial. If you ever need anything in the future, don't hesitate to reach out.
Evolution was recommended by my surgeon from the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute. I'm recovering from a separated rotator cuff and torn bicep tendon in my right shoulder. The recovery time is estimated 12-18 months or more (wow).Recovering is essential and a good PT is a must. Evolution has been exceptionally in taking care of all aspect of the processes i.e. working with the insurance company, writing and submitting medical reports to the appropriate medical providers and surgeon associates. It's lots of paperwork that they complete in a timely manner and with a smile.The Physical Therapist (Anna Lee) is exemplary. Anna is an educator, explains and provide detail treatment information (videos of prescribe movements, and exercises necessary for recovering). She also is a strong communicator and explains the details in terms that are understandable and providing meaningful feedback, along with being a good listener, taking notes of as I explain any difficulties and symptoms I am experiencing.Anna and the assistant PT are professional, the treatments and exercises are done with great care, they are very encouraging and positive/upbeat!Evolution environment is very welcoming from checking in and all the services they provide.My surgeon is very complementary to the reports and my progress.Overall, I would highly recommend Evolution!
Response from the owner: Hi Daphne, Thank you immensely for taking the time to share such a detailed and glowing review of your experience at Evolution. We're thrilled to hear that our team, led by Anna Lee, has been able to support you effectively throughout your recovery journey. Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our clients is always our top priority, and it's wonderful to know that you felt comfortable and encouraged throughout your visits. If there's anything more we can do to support you on your road to recovery, please don't hesitate to reach out.
I've lived a full active life with frequent Physical Therapy opportunities. I am currently recovering from a full knee replacement. I chose Evolution as a result of a recommendation from my at home PT immediately following surgery. I have been pleased with Evolution overall as they are well run, have convenient locations, clean up-to-date facilities, take insurance etc. However, the most important reason is the therapy itself. I was assigned Anna Lee who is helping me navigate one of the hardest situations I've ever been in. She is knowledgeable, professional, hard working, accountable and most of all, empathetic. This hasn't been easy, but it's likely the best PT experience I've had. I would recommend Anna to anyone and I assure you as I navigate this nasty thing called old age, I will seek her assistance in the future.
Response from the owner: Hi Bart,Thanks for the wonderful and thoughtful review! So glad to hear that you've been having a great experience at Evolution and particularly with Anna!
Kara has been amazing. She helped my 10 year old twins be pain free after having leg pain for 5 years. She was so thorough in her evaluation and throughout her therapy with them. She made PT so fun for them they looked forward to going. Kara is the best!
Response from the owner: Hi Rashelle, Thanks for the great review! So glad your twins had a wonderful and fun experience in PT with Kara!
I highly recommend Evolution. Very professional staff who take a personal interest in the patients recovery process. I have been working with Jon who is very knowledgeable and has put together a rehab plan that has me recovering faster than I expected. Thanks so much!
Response from the owner: Thanks for the wonderful review! Glad to hear you're on the mend with Jon's help!
Jennifer was very professional and helpful in treating my lower back problems. Through her expertise and a variety of techniques and exercises, I am now pain-free. I highly recommend her!
Response from the owner: So glad to hear Jennifer was able to help you get back to being pain-free! Thanks for your great review.
Very professional from the moment you walk in through the whole experience. Everyone getting help is on a journey, and you see them being encouraged by caring PTs to get better, try a little harder. Erika is very knowledgeable and has helped me tremendously through many running injuries over a lot of years.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the kind great review, Dionne! Erika is wonderful and so happy to hear that she has been helping you on your journey!
I'm very pleased with Kara's attitude and care. I recommend her.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the great review! Glad to hear you are getting great care!
Lindsay and the whole staff of Evolution P/T are very knowledgeable, patient and friendly.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the wonderful review, Susan!
Carole is amazing at what she does. She is really helping me recover from 2 ankle surgeries. I can really feel the difference from other therapist I’ve had.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the amazing review Aaron! Glad to hear you're having a great recovery process with Carole's help!
Daniel is an amazing physical therapist - his knowledge and care for his patients far surpasses anywhere else I’ve been. He fine tunes his programs to suit his patients’ daily needs, which means he pays attention!
Response from the owner: Thanks for the great review! Glad to hear you are getting great care!
Excellent help for my problem from Daniel
Response from the owner: Thanks for the wonderful review!
Very knowledgeable and experienced staff
Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review, Jeanie!
I had a great experience at Evolution PT. The facilities are clean & everyone is so friendly. My therapist, Mitchell, was super knowledgeable, professional and patient with me. He helped me develop an exercise plan for my torn meniscus that has so far helped me avoid the need for surgery. Highly recommend Evolution PT.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the review! Happy to hear you were able to avoid surgery with Mitchell's help!
I came to Evolution from a doctor’s recommendation after a knee injury prevented me from running. 8 weeks later I am back to running pain free!My physical therapist Jen was super knowledgeable and taught me a lot about my body and what I need to do to be able to run and operate at peak performance for the rest of my life! I had to work hard for it but with Jen’s guidance my progress was very consistent!
Response from the owner: Thanks for the great review Lorenzo! Happy to hear that you are back to running pain-free with Jen's help!
The instructor Ted is awesome.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the review!
I have chronic back and hip issues; although a candidate for surgery postponing indefinitely. After a few searches and reviews decided to try this location. Front desk team were helpful and informative regarding insurance plan (Medicare+supplemental). Easy to schedule. There is metered and side street parking. I always found a spot. Be prepared and patient though.Erica Seto was awesome; she reviewed my both MRIs provided comforting feedback, explained her process. I had my own patient portal so I could continue the recommended exercises at home.I practice Tai Chi regularly, she helped identify why I had issues with some of the poses; easy corrections.Highly recommend Erica and this location. This is an active and lively location. Very upbeat and positive team.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the wonderful review! We're so happy that Erika was able to help you avoid surgery and get you feeling better!
Hello. My name is Vivian Chinelli. I highly recommend my physical therapist, Jonathan Bernfeld. He is extremely knowledgeable, professional, encouraging and fun! He's helped me move through my range of motion issues caused by frozen shoulder very quickly. Just a few more tweaks and I'll be free and clear of movement and pain issues.
Response from the owner: Vivian, thanks for your wonderful review! So glad that Jon is getting you back to 100%!
Mitchell McLaughlin has truly helped me by taking the time to access my injury and by continually adjusting my stretching/strengthening routine. His knowledge of the body and concern and care for my injury make him a truly effective physical therapist. My injury is 5 years old and he’s the first one to address the root causes of my injury. I’m stronger and in less pain after only 4 weeks of pt. The environment at Evolution PT is open and easy going. Always greeted with a smile, and cancelling/rescheduling (w/24 hours notice) is simple. There is ample street parking in all directions.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the great review, Joe! Glad to hear that you're getting better with the help of Mitchell!
Jonathan Bernfeld is a truly knowledgeable and gifted physical therapist— he understands anatomy and is highly skilled. And he really cares about his patients. Jonathan substantially improved my pain and stiffness. I would definitely recommend John for anyone in need of physical therapy.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the kind review! Glad to hear you're feeling better with the help of Jon!
Lauren great!!!
Response from the owner: Thank you for the review, Eugene!
I came to Evolution Physical Therapy to heal a knee injury so I could get back to training for my next marathon. Dr. Carole Gong has been absolutely wonderful in assessing my weaknesses and teaching me the exercises I need to build strength and heal quickly. She is compassionate and, as a runner herself, understands how important the sport is to me. More importantly, having a reliable physical therapy program gives you the confidence and freedom to know that you are on the path to recovery so you can get back to doing the life activities you love. The patients here come from a wide spectrum of backgrounds in their physical needs, from post-surgery healing to age-related mobility issues to athletic people recovering from injuries. Everyone is welcome. The Evolution facilities in Beverly Hills are clean and well maintained, and the front desk is well organized and efficiently run with scheduling and billing. Highly recommended!
Response from the owner: Thank you for the wonderful review! We're so glad to hear you are regaining the confidence to get back to doing what you love! See you at the next finish line!
Jennifer is a life saver. She is kind, patient, methodical and professional. If you need physical therapy, don’t look elsewhere. I have been there and done that.
Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind review, Daniel!
Evolution PT has been excellent for strengthening my neck to return to running.Carol Gong has been my PT therapist. She’s very professional and experienced. I’ve gotten the tools /exercises to become aware of what I can do myself @ home to relieve neck pain, strengthen neck/shoulders/back and continue my running routine. Evolution works with you with exercises @ each session. It gets you into the routine of doing the important exercises!
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for the review. Glad to hear you are back to running pain free!
One wonderful thing about by terrible bike accident has been getting to work with the best PT in L.A., Dr. Ethan. The charisma he brings to his work is beyond compare. Ethan doesn't just treat his patients he forms relationships with them; you'll feel his support and care from the moment you walk in. Watching him nurture junior staff and help young kids recovering from injuries during their jr. sport career with passion and presence is simply a joy. His slappin playlists, lively personality and humor keep every session fresh and fun. I wouldn't have kept up with my recovery with out this sensational human <3
Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind review! We're so glad you are doing better and can see the passion and joy our staff have for what they do.
I had the pleasure of working with Lauren Lee and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a PT. From our initial evaluation, she correctly diagnosed my injury (later proven correct through an MRI) that my primary care doctor had misdiagnosed, and she properly designed my treatment plan accordingly. She is also extremely easy to work with, caring, encouraging, and knowledgeable. Definitely 5/5 and would return myself for my next injury.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the review, Joshua! So glad Lauren was able to help you and that you are feeling better!
I am having Physical Therapy to help reduce the pain in my shoulder. I am getting great attention... helping me work on better form with everyday exercises (bench press) and simple exercises that help build the smaller shoulder muscles. Carole has been great. I have just started but already seeing improvement in mobility.
Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review, Robert!
Great place for PT. Krysia is fantastic.
Response from the owner: Thank you for the review, Raymond!
Kara Pilar is a great PT! Very knowledgable and patient--highly recommend!
Response from the owner: Thank you for the review, Kathryn! We agree, Kara is great!
Can't ask for better care. Nick Davis has been nothing but amazing since I've started working with him. I highly recommend him. I've tried other physical therapists before and none of them come close.
Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review, Meir!
Great local office for PT. Clean facilities and good therapists.
Response from the owner: Thank you for the review, David!
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