How We Treat

Astym

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What is Astym?

Astym is a regenerative therapy which is provided by a certified physical therapist who is trained in this specialty technique. Instruments are applied to muscle, tendon, and ligaments to locate dysfunctional (unhealthy) soft tissue; to create pressure and shear forces to the underlying soft tissue structures to promote healing. Astym treats abnormal soft tissue, scar tissue, and injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonopathies. Astym works by enhancing mobility and movement by decreasing pain, fibrosis, and abnormal soft tissue. Astym is non-invasive, safe, and cost effective that allows you to accelerate your recovery.

What can I expect?

After an assessment of your condition, your certified Astym Clinician will use a set of instruments that are engaged firmly along your skin over the involved the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Astym works on the entire kinetic chain, not just painful spot. This helps to address any dysfunction above and below painful area. The Astym treatment uses a specific sequence of strokes with the different instruments to engage the underlying tissue. You might feel the instruments “catch” or run over “bumps” ; this represents damaged or abnormal tissue. As your body heals, these bumps will smooth out indicating healing is progressing. You might experience soreness and/or mild bruising. This is a normal response as your body is working at absorbing old dysfunctional tissue and laying down new healthy tissue.

What Should I Do?

You are encouraged to move and stay active!!! You will be given a customized home program that includes both stretching and strengthening component. Stretching helps to align the existing fibers and newly formed ones to line up correctly. Strengthening helps to make the tissues stronger and perform better. This is essential to maximizing treatment results. Your physical therapist will also provided you guidelines on sports related activities.

How Long Does It Take?

Most people start to feel better within 3-4 treatment. Most conditions resolve in approximately 8-10 visits over the course of 4-5 weeks at our Algonquin, IL location.