IASTM-1: Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization for Spine & Extremity Conditions: An Evidence-Based Approach

This three-day (24 contact hours) hands-on, technique driven course will emphasize the use of instruments to assist with joint and soft tissue mobilization. Participants will learn to use Fibrosis Release and Myofascial Stretching (FRAMS™) tools, vacuum cups, and advanced therapeutic massage techniques to facilitate remodeling and healing at the tissue level. In addition, participants will review the properties of muscular and fascial tissue on a histological level and investigate their role in common spinal and extremity neuromusculoskelatal disorders. The current evidence surrounding the use of instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization (IASTM) in neuromusculoskeletal disorders will be comprehensively reviewed. Participants will learn how to detect myofascial dysfunction and appropriately select the tool and/or technique for the specific dysfunction. Particular emphasis will be placed on appropriately framing the use of IASTM techniques within an evidence-based approach.

The best available literature surrounding the use of Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) for a spinal and extremity musculoskeletal disorders will be discussed. Participants will be exposed to providing FRAMS physical therapy using the 4-tool FRAMS™ system.  While the Fibrosis Release aspect of the FRAMS™ system has been implicated in faster healing times secondary to remodeling of scar tissue that is common in tendinopathies, muscles strains or other connective tissue disorders, instrument-assisted Myofascial Stretching is thought to realign the collagen matrix as the tissue heals. The result is a strong connective tissue, less scarring, and decreased pain and disability.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. Discuss the pain physiology, including the biomechanical, chemical, and neurovascular alterations, that occurs in patients with myofascial pain syndromes.
2. Describe the indications, precautions and contra-indications (relative and absolute) for use of the FRAMS™ physical therapy and the FRAMS 4-piece tool set, vacuum cupping and therapeutic massage.
3. Discuss the current evidence surrounding the use of soft-tissue mobilization, myofascial cupping and therapeutic massage for a range of spinal and extremity neuromusculoskeletal disorders.
4. Identify and differentiate myofascial, joint, teno-osseous, and musculo-tendinous syndromes.
5. Demonstrate advanced therapeutic massage techniques for spinal and extremity conditions.
6. Demonstrate appropriate selection of, and actual use of, IASTM tools for a broad range of neuromusculoskeletal spinal and extremity disorders.
7. Understand the clinical reasoning for the use of myofascial cupping techniques in a variety of spinal and extremity neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
8. Utilize the best available evidence to facilitate integration of IASTM techniques with HVLA thrust manipulation, dry needling, exercise, and/or non-thrust mobilization techniques for a variety of spinal and extremity neuroumusculoskeletal disorders.

The 4-Piece FRAMS™ Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) tool set is provided during the 3-day course; however, if participants want to provide FRAMS™ physical therapy services in their own clinic, they can purchase the 4-piece FRAMS tools after the course or online.