Relieve Muscle Tension and Improve Movement
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Stiff, tight, or sore muscles can hold you back from feeling and moving your best. At Spinal Health Group in Springfield, Dr. Josh Alvarado offers Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy to help release tension, reduce pain, and restore healthy movement patterns.
This therapy uses specialized tools to gently break up restrictions in muscles and soft tissues, allowing your body to heal more effectively.
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What is Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy?
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Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy (sometimes called IASTT or IASTM) is a hands-on treatment that uses smooth, stainless-steel tools to target tight muscles, fascia, and scar tissue. The instruments allow Dr. Alvarado to apply precise pressure to areas of restriction, which helps:
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Break up adhesions and scar tissue
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Stimulate blood flow and healing
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Reduce pain and inflammation
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Restore normal muscle and joint function
This therapy is often combined with chiropractic adjustments, stretching, or corrective exercises for the best results.
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Benefits of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy
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Patients in Springfield choose this therapy because it can help with:
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Chronic muscle tightness and stiffness
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Sports injuries and overuse conditions
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Scar tissue from past injuries or surgeries
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Tendonitis and repetitive strain injuries
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Neck and back pain related to muscle tension
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Improving flexibility and mobility
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply want to move more freely, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy can be a powerful part of your care plan.
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What to Expect During Treatment
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Your session begins with a consultation to identify the areas causing pain or limiting movement. Using specially designed tools, Dr. Alvarado applies gentle, targeted pressure to the soft tissues.
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Some patients feel mild discomfort as tight areas release, similar to a deep tissue massage, but most find it both effective and relieving. After treatment, it’s common to notice improved range of motion and reduced tension. Mild redness or tenderness may occur temporarily as circulation improves, but this typically fades quickly.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy
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Does IASTM hurt?
Most patients feel only mild discomfort as tight areas release. Many describe it as a “good hurt,” similar to deep massage, and enjoy the relief it provides.
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Is IASTM safe?
Yes. When performed by a trained chiropractor like Dr. Alvarado, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy is very safe. Treatments are adapted to each patient’s comfort level.
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How many sessions will I need?
That depends on your condition and goals. Some patients notice improvement after one or two sessions, while others with chronic issues may benefit from a series of treatments.
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Can this therapy be combined with chiropractic adjustments?
Absolutely. In fact, many patients experience the best results when soft tissue therapy is combined with chiropractic adjustments, exercises, or other supportive treatments.
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Schedule Your First Appointment Today
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If you’re looking for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy in Springfield, VA, Spinal Health Group is here to help. Dr. Josh Alvarado combines advanced therapies with personalized chiropractic care to relieve pain, improve mobility, and support your long-term health.
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Call or text our office today to schedule your first appointment. You can also visit our New Patient page to get started.