The Awareness, Practice and Perception of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) among Malaysian Physiotherapists

Abstract

Introduction: Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a relatively recent method that has been shown to help reduce muscular tension, increase flexibility and prevent tissue adhesion. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of awareness and knowledge about the benefits of IASTM, especially following injury rehabilitation, despite its many advantages. The study aimed to investigate the awareness, practice and perception of instrument- assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) among Malaysian physiotherapists (PTs). Methods: The cross-sectional study included 133 PTs who answered an online questionnaire via a google link on their awareness and perception of IASTM in their practice. The Google link was given to the participants through email and the official Malaysian Physiotherapy (MPA) social media group. Results: Majority of the respondents (73.7%) are aware of IASTM technique. Despite being aware on IASTM, 74.4% of respondents reported not practicing the technique. Furthermore, 73.7% of respondents stated that the main reason they don’t practice is because fingers have better force adjustment than IASTM. Over 80% of respondents revealed that practicing IASTM can save energy and convenient during myofascial release. Moreover, 82.7 % of respondents stated that one of the benefits of IASTM for PTs is that it helps alleviate stress on fingers and wrists during soft tissue mobilization. Beyond 55% of respondents stated that they will incorporate IASTM in practice in near future. Conclusion: According to the findings, the majority of Malaysian physiotherapists are aware of the IASTM. However, fewer than half of respondents declined to incorporate it into their future practice due to the PTs preference for feeling the patient’s muscle texture. More emphasis can be given to the IASTM techniques among the PTs as the participants have mentioned that IASTM has better force exertion and saves energy when applying soft tissue massage.