As science and research evolves, advancements in medicine are continually shaping the landscape of rehabilitation. One such advancement is Astym Therapy, a regenerative soft tissue treatment that uses instruments to induce a tissue healing response.
In the mid-1990s, about the time I was graduating from Texas Woman’s University with a Masters of Science in Physical Therapy, there was emerging evidence on the degenerative nature of tendinopathy. In other words, we were just finding out that not all painful tendons were inflamed. In the case of chronic “tendinitis”, they were often finding an unhealthy tendon, full of tiny capillary loops that, due to repetitive stresses, never re-connected to normal blood circulation, so the tendon was not being nourished with oxygen-rich blood. It remained in an unhealthy state, or a state of “tendinosis.” Now it made sense why treating a degenerative tendon like an inflamed tendon just didn’t work.
Research on Astym Therapy began in Muncie, Indiana, about this same time, with a theory about a potential external, non-invasive treatment method with the ability to regenerate and remodel soft tissues. Specific protocols were developed defining the use of hand-held instruments to topically locate underlying dysfunctional soft tissue and then transfer particular pressures and shear forces to stimulate the body’s innate tissue turn-over process through cellular activity (via the capillary loops).
Astym Therapy represented a paradigm shift in how we approached the treatment of chronic, degenerative tendinosis and inappropriate scar tissue. Instead of merely treating symptoms, we could stimulate the body’s capacity to regenerate and repair damaged tissues, offering hope for those seeking holistic healing and lasting relief from pain and injury.
I was introduced to Astym Therapy in 2000 by a fellow physical therapy mentor, Bud Ferrante, PT. After he treated me, I felt the immediate changes, and became a certified Astym provider in 2001. I joined their teaching team in 2003, and over the past 20 years, have helped develop some of the Astym treatment protocols.
How Astym Therapy Works
After conducting a thorough evaluation, I’ll determine if Astym Therapy is right for you and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. The standardized Astym Therapy process includes the assessment and treatment of the entire kinetic chain to address improper movement patterns. As I glide the instruments along your skin, following the direction of the underlying muscles, tendons and ligaments, you will feel changes in tissue texture, representing the dysfunctional tissue. I follow the Astym treatment with functional exercise programs to properly load the tissues in order to promote healthy, functional alignment of new healthy tissues.
Does Astym Therapy Break Up Scar Tissue
While some instrument-assisted treatments focus on mechanically disrupting tissue, Astym Therapy focuses on working with the body to activate regenerative mechanisms. By using specifically-developed protocols, Astym Therapy engages the body to resorb problematic scar tissue and stimulate healing of soft tissues. The result is a kinder, gentler form of soft tissue treatment, that can be used on a wide variety of patient populations.
The Benefits of Astym Therapy
The benefits of regenerative soft tissue treatment extend far beyond symptom management, offering a host of advantages for individuals seeking long-term wellness and vitality. Some of these benefits include:
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Enhanced tissue healing: By promoting the body’s natural healing processes, regenerative therapies facilitate faster and more comprehensive tissue repair, leading to improved function and mobility.
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Pain relief: By targeting the underlying cause of pain, rather than masking symptoms, regenerative treatments offer sustainable pain relief without the need for long-term medication.
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Improved function: Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or an individual seeking to regain mobility, regenerative therapies can help restore function and enhance overall quality of life.
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Minimally invasive: Unlike traditional surgical interventions, regenerative soft tissue treatments are minimally invasive, reducing the risk of complications and promoting quicker recovery times.
Astym Therapy Effectively Treats the Following Conditions
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Achilles Tendinopathy
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Arthrofibrosis
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Chronic Ankle Pain and Stiffness
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Chronic Wrist Pain and Stiffness
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DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis
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Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylopathy)
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Hamstring Strain
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IT Band Syndrome
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Jumper’s Knee
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Low Back Pain
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Patellar Tendinopathy
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Plantar Fasciitis
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Post-Mastectomy Scarring
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Post-Surgical Scarring/Fibrosis
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Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
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Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylopathy)
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Trochanteric Bursitis
Embark on Your Journey to Wellness
Astym Therapy provides solutions for all kinds of soft tissue problems, even hard-to-treat conditions that have not been resolved through other methods in the past. As a personalized physical therapist passionate about empowering my clients to achieve their wellness goals, I invite you to explore the transformative potential of regenerative soft tissue treatment. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, or simply seeking to optimize your movement and vitality, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, let’s embark on a journey toward renewed health, vitality, and resilience.
Ready to experience the benefits of regenerative soft tissue treatment? Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards revitalizing your movement and reclaiming your life.