Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization
Smooth steel tools are stroked along tight muscles and tendons to work the soft tissue.
What it is
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization uses hand-held stainless steel tools with smooth, rounded edges. Dr. Hua strokes them along the skin over tight muscles, tendons, and connective tissue.
The tools let him feel areas of tightness and apply steady pressure to them. A light lotion is used so the tool glides.
Who it may help
- People with tight or knotted muscles in the back, neck, or shoulders
- Runners and athletes with tendon or calf tightness
- People with scar tissue limiting movement after an old injury
Every patient is different. Dr. Hua will tell you after the exam whether this is a good fit for you.
What a session is like
Dr. Hua works one area at a time for a few minutes. It can feel like a firm massage.
The skin may look pink or red afterward. That usually fades within a day or two.
It is often done as part of a chiropractic visit rather than on its own.
Questions patients ask
- Does it leave bruises?
- Light redness is common. Bruising can happen but is not the goal. Tell Dr. Hua if the pressure is too much.
- Is it the same as massage?
- It is similar in that it works the soft tissue, but it uses a tool instead of hands, which allows more focused pressure on small areas.
- Can I exercise afterward?
- Light activity is fine. Many patients prefer to wait until the next day for hard workouts.