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IASTM — Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization in
La Crosse and Onalaska
Precision soft tissue treatment to break down scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions.
What Is IASTM?
IASTM — Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization — uses specially designed stainless steel or polymer tools to detect and treat areas of soft tissue dysfunction. The beveled edges of the instruments allow therapists to identify fascial restrictions and scar tissue with exceptional precision, then apply targeted pressure to break down adhesions, stimulate healing, and restore normal tissue mobility.
IASTM is grounded in the same principles as traditional soft tissue mobilization but allows therapists to reach deeper layers of tissue with more controlled force than is possible with hands alone. It is particularly effective for chronic scar tissue, tendon dysfunction, and restrictions that persist after injury or surgery.
What Does It Treat?
What to Expect During Treatment
The tool is moved across the skin — typically with a light emollient to reduce friction — using specific strokes to scan for and treat areas of tissue restriction. You will feel a scraping or burnishing sensation. Some patients experience redness or mild bruising in treated areas, which is normal.
IASTM sessions are typically 10–15 minutes within a broader PT appointment. The treated area may feel tender for 24–48 hours. Most patients notice improved tissue mobility and reduced pain within a few sessions. It is almost always combined with corrective exercise.
Our Key Providers
The specific care you need and deserve — all brought together under one practice, across three locations in La Crosse and Onalaska.
Find the right specialist for exactly what you need.
Is IASTM painful?
IASTM creates a scraping sensation that ranges from mild to moderately intense depending on the area. Most patients find it tolerable and notice immediate improved tissue mobility. Temporary redness and post-treatment soreness are expected.
What is the difference between IASTM and Gua Sha?
Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian practice using smooth tools for a similar scraping effect. IASTM is a clinically developed system using precision-engineered instruments applied by a trained physical therapist based on anatomical assessment and diagnosis.
How many IASTM sessions will I need?
Results often appear quickly — many patients notice changes in tissue mobility after 1–2 sessions. Chronic scar tissue or long-standing tendinopathy may require more sessions for lasting change.
Can IASTM be used on a fresh injury?
IASTM is generally not used in the acute phase (first 24–72 hours) when significant inflammation is present. It is most effective once the initial inflammatory stage has passed and tissue remodeling is underway.
Will IASTM leave marks on my skin?
Potentially, temporary redness (petechiae) is a common and expected response, indicating increased circulation. This fades within hours to a couple of days. It is not bruising and does not indicate tissue damage.
Break through the restrictions that have been holding you back.
IASTM is often the tool that finally resolves the scar tissue or tendon issue that hasn't responded to other approaches.
Call us today (608) 351-3049 for State Road (608) 668-6700
Front Desk Hours
Monday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday: 800am - 4:30pm
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
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Our Locations
Onalaska Location
1430 Main St, Onalaska, WI 54650
State Road - La Crosse
3208 State Road, Suite A, La Crosse, WI 54601
Unity - La Crosse
2801 Losey Blvd, La Crosse, WI 54601
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