University of Idaho
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a technique commonly used in sports medicine to reduce muscle tightness and improve range of motion. The technique involves using a handheld instrument, typically made of metal, to apply pressure and massage soft tissues. The instrument allows clinicians to target specific areas while reducing stress on their hands. Previous research has demonstrated that IASTM may improve range of motion and reduce muscle tightness. However, little is known about how the amount of force applied during treatment influences these outcomes. This study aims to investigate the effects of different IASTM treatment forces on calf muscle stiffness and ankle dorsiflexion (the movement of the foot upward toward the shin). Participants will receive either low-force IASTM (0-5 N), high-force IASTM (10-15 N), or no treatment depending on what group they are assigned to. Treatment force will be monitored using a sensor attached to the IASTM instrument (Figure 1). Changes in tissue stiffness will be assessed using the MyotonPRO, a handheld device that measures the mechanical properties of muscles and other soft tissues. Changes in ankle dorsiflexion will be evaluated using clinical movement tests and motion capture analysis. The findings may help researchers and clinicians better understand how different IASTM treatment protocols influence tissue stiffness and ankle mobility, potentially contributing to more standardized treatment recommendations.
Participants will complete a single laboratory visit lasting approximately 82 minutes. 1. Informed Consent and Demographics (\~7 minutes) Upon arrival, a member of the research team will verbally review the study procedures, expectations, and potential risks. Risks include temporary discomfort during treatment, red marks on the skin, and mild soreness the following day. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions before signing the informed consent document. After signing, participants will have the opportunity to change into athletic shorts in a nearby locker room. The research t…
Inclusion Criteria: \- You are between 18 and 39 years of age You are able to stand, walk, squat, and lunge barefoot without assistance You are able to read and understand English and provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: \- You do not have a current skin infection. You do not have any prior lower extremity surgeries for muscles, bones, or joints. You do not have a current injury that limits your gait or ability to squat. You are not currently pregnant. You are not taking any anticoagulant medications, or medications that would inhibit your balance, or pain perception. You…
A single session of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization applied bilaterally to the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle bellies. One trained clinician delivers all treatments using the convex edge of the RockBlades 2.0 Mallet (RockTape, Durham, NC), a solid surgical stainless steel instrument fitted with a force sensor. Real time force feedback keeps applied force within the assigned range, and a metronome paces stroke rate. Sweeping strokes are applied longitudinally, parallel to the muscle fibers, with water based ultrasound gel as the lubricant, for 3 minutes per leg (6 minutes total). A pretreatment tolerance screening excludes participants who rate discomfort above 8 on a 0 to 10 VAS. No stretching, warm up, exercise, or other manual therapy accompanies treatment. The protocol is distinguished from other IASTM interventions by quantified, controlled force, a fixed stroke rate, and a single session dose.