Does IASTM Really Improve Range of Motion? A fresh review of the science (evidence).
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) has become a popular tool in manual therapy. Many clinicians use it to address muscle tightness and soft tissue restrictions.
But how effective is it really at improving range of motion (ROM)? A new meta-analysis published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders (Tang et al., 2024) provides some updated insights.
What the Study Looked At
The researchers set out to answer a straightforward question: Does IASTM improve ROM?
- Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
- Population: Both healthy individuals (with or without ROM restrictions) and patients with musculoskeletal disorders.
- Outcome: Changes in ROM, measured in either degrees or centimeters.
Nine trials with about 450 participants were included.
Key Findings
- For patients and healthy people with ROM deficits: IASTM improved ROM by an average of ~5 degrees.
- For healthy people without deficits: ROM increased by about ~2 degrees.
- When measured in centimeters: Only one trial used this method, and it found no significant effect.
- Standalone vs combination: Both IASTM alone and IASTM used with other therapies showed small but measurable benefits.
So that’s a good result so far…
The Quality of the Evidence
Not so good…
While the numbers sound promising, the overall quality of evidence was rated very low to low.
Why was it low quality?
· Small group sizes.
- Inconsistent ROM measurement methods.
- High or unclear risk of bias in several studies (e.g., randomisation, blinding).
What This Means for Clinicians
- IASTM can help. Expect small quick gains in ROM.
- Don’t rely on it alone. Evidence is weak, so IASTM should remain one tool within a broader rehab program rather than a standalone solution.
- Think long-term. Quick improvements can be made longer lasting when combined with rehab and behavior change. We always teach this on our RockBlade courses.
My conclusion: The RockBlade is a great tool but not a magic wand. This blog did not discuss pain relief or the ability for IASTM to protect your own joints, especially your thumbs. More on that here.
See you on a course soon!
Daniel Lawrence
Reference: Tang, Q., et al. (2024). The effectiveness of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on range of motion: a meta-analysis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.