What Does Astym Therapy Do – Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Astym Therapy – a revolutionary approach to physical rehabilitation and pain management. In this article, we delve into the intricate details of what Astym Therapy is, how it works, its benefits, and why it stands out as a cutting-edge solution for a range of musculoskeletal issues.
Understanding Astym Therapy
Astym Therapy, also known as Augmented Soft Tissue Mobilization, is an evidence-based treatment technique designed to target and stimulate the body’s natural healing process. Unlike traditional methods, Astym Therapy focuses on regenerating damaged tissues rather than simply masking symptoms. This approach is particularly effective in addressing chronic soft tissue problems such as tendinitis, scar tissue, and other musculoskeletal issues.
How Does Astym Therapy Work?
Following many injuries, including post-surgical, traumatic, repetitive and overuse injuries, the body responds by laying down fibers to assist in the healing process. Often this results in scar tissue and excessive fibrosis that restricts normal mobility and mechanics and can result in pain and dysfunction.
The ASTYM technique works by producing controlled microtrauma into the tissue, increasing blood flow and allowing for the regeneration of healthy tissues. Paired with specific stretching and exercises, ASTYM works to restore healthy tissues and decrease pain.
Astym Therapy employs specialized instruments to locate and target areas of scar tissue or dysfunction. The certified therapist uses these instruments to precisely apply pressure along the affected area, stimulating the body’s natural response to initiate the healing process. This unique process helps to break down scar tissue, promote blood flow, and encourage the regeneration of healthy tissue.
What to Expect from your Astym Treatment
While every case is different, there are a few things all patients should expect during and following an ASTYM treatment. Contrary to popular belief, more is not always better. Your physical therapist will determine the appropriate pressure and duration for your session based on their initial evaluation and specific training.
As with any treatment, it is important to always let your therapist know what you are feeling – while some discomfort is common, ASTYM treatments should not be intolerable.
Additionally, it is common and actually a positive sign when redness occurs (indicating blood flow) and not uncommon to have some bruising in the days following ASTYM treatment. Typically ASTYM therapy is performed every other day or every two days to allow for optimal healing, but be sure to make your therapist aware of any bruising or skin sensitivities to best determine their plan of care.
While there are no quick fixes in the world of health and healing, many report improved symptoms immediately following a single bout of ASTYM and many report resolved symptoms in 6-8 visits when combined with a specific exercise and stretching program.
The Benefits of Astym Therapy
1. Promotes Healing
Astym Therapy takes a proactive approach to healing. By targeting the root cause of the issue – scar tissue – the therapy prompts the body to regenerate healthy tissue, leading to improved functionality and reduced pain.
2. Non-Invasive
Unlike surgical interventions, Astym Therapy is non-invasive. It doesn’t involve any incisions, medications, or lengthy recovery periods. This makes it an attractive option for individuals looking for effective solutions without the risks associated with surgery.
3. Long-Term Results
One of the standout benefits of Astym Therapy is its potential to provide long-term results. By addressing the underlying issues causing discomfort, patients may experience lasting relief rather than short-term symptom management.
4. Versatile Application
Astym Therapy isn’t limited to a specific age group or condition. It’s suitable for a wide range of patients, from athletes dealing with sports-related injuries to individuals recovering from surgery or accidents.
Why Choose Astym Therapy Over Traditional Methods?
In a world where options for pain management and rehabilitation abound, Astym Therapy distinguishes itself through its focus on true healing. Unlike traditional methods that might provide temporary relief, Astym Therapy addresses the core problem, aiding the body in rebuilding healthy tissue and ultimately improving overall function and quality of life.
What Conditions are Treated by Astym?
ASTYM therapy can assist in treating a variety of conditions, including those stemming from overuse, prolonged immobilization, and post-surgical in addition to chronic injuries. Many common diagnosis successfully treated by ASTYM include achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, patellar tendonitis, IT band syndrome and lateral epicondylitis.
Astym in Physical Therapy
ASTYM is one of the many manual therapies that Stride Strong physical therapists provide to our patients to help tendons and soft tissue dysfunctions heal. ASTYM therapy has proven repetitively in the clinic to improve function, range of motion, and assist in nerve and scar tissue healing. The ASTYM treatment only takes about 15 to 30 minutes on a single limb and ASTYM can be done on all ages of patients, on most physical therapy injuries.
Conclusion
Astym Therapy offers a unique and effective approach to rehabilitation and pain management. By targeting scar tissue and stimulating the body’s healing mechanisms, it provides long-term relief and improved functionality. Whether you’re an athlete looking to recover from an injury or someone seeking a non-invasive solution to chronic pain, Astym Therapy stands as a beacon of hope.
