GUA SHA THERAPY/ INSTRUMENTED ASSISTED MASSAGE

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy for Muscle Tension, Mobility & Recovery

Gua Sha and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) use specially designed tools to apply controlled pressure and movement across the skin and underlying soft tissues.

At Corrective Pain Relief in Manchester City Centre, these techniques may be incorporated into osteopathic treatment to address muscular tension, stiffness and movement restriction, particularly where soft tissues may be contributing to discomfort or reduced mobility.

Treatment is tailored following assessment and may be combined with osteopathy, manual therapy, dry needling, cupping and exercise rehabilitation where appropriate.

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→ How Does Gua Sha & IASTM Work?

Gua Sha is a traditional technique involving the use of a smooth-edged tool moved across the skin using controlled pressure.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) applies similar principles within modern musculoskeletal treatment, using specially designed instruments to assess and work with areas of soft-tissue tension and restriction.

Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the techniques can differ in their origins, tools and clinical application.

At Corrective Pain Relief, instrument-assisted techniques are used within a broader osteopathic and rehabilitation approach, rather than as a standalone solution for every problem.

→ How Does IASTM Work?

Instrument-assisted techniques can be adapted according to the area being treated, your symptoms and individual treatment goals.

During treatment, an appropriate lubricant is applied to the skin before a smooth instrument is moved across the treatment area using controlled pressure.

The technique provides a mechanical stimulus to the skin and superficial soft tissues. Depending on the individual and treatment goal, it may be used alongside movement and other manual therapy techniques when addressing areas that feel tight, sensitive or restricted.

The pressure and technique can be adapted according to the area being treated and your comfort.

Instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques may be considered when muscular tension, stiffness or restricted movement forms part of a patient’s presentation.

At Corrective Pain Relief, Gua Sha or IASTM may be incorporated into treatment for:

• Neck and shoulder tension
• Back and upper-back muscular tension
• Sports-related muscular tightness
• Exercise-related soreness
• Restricted movement and stiffness
• Postural muscular tension
• Tendon and surrounding soft-tissue complaints
• General musculoskeletal aches and tension

The appropriate treatment depends on why you’re experiencing symptoms, rather than simply where you feel pain.

Your appointment therefore begins with an assessment to determine whether instrument-assisted therapy, another treatment technique, exercise rehabilitation or further investigation would be more appropriate.

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1. Assessment

We’ll first discuss your symptoms, medical history, activity and goals before assessing the relevant area and movement where appropriate.

2. Instrument-Assisted Treatment

If appropriate, lubricant is applied to the skin and an instrument is moved across selected soft tissues using controlled pressure.

Treatment should be tolerable and can be adjusted according to your comfort.

3. Osteopathic Treatment

IASTM may be combined with joint mobilisation, manipulation, soft tissue therapy, dry needling or other osteopathic techniques where appropriate.

4. Movement & Rehabilitation

Where relevant, mobility or strengthening exercises may be prescribed to address factors contributing to your symptoms and help maintain progress beyond hands-on treatment.

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At Corrective Pain Relief, instrument-assisted therapy isn’t used according to a fixed protocol.

Musculoskeletal problems can involve several contributing factors including joints, muscles, tendons, previous injuries, movement patterns, activity levels and everyday physical demands.

Depending on your assessment, treatment may combine:

Osteopathic manual therapy
Joint mobilisation or manipulation
Soft tissue therapy
Gua Sha / IASTM
Acupuncture / dry needling
Cupping therapy
Mobility exercises
Strength and rehabilitation

The techniques selected depend on the individual and what is clinically appropriate rather than applying the same treatment to everyone.

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★★★★★

“His treatments are always very effective and have worked well to help relieve the constant pain I was feeling in my shoulders and back. I feel happier, healthier and have a better understanding of my own body since beginning treatments with Adrian.”

Clare — Google

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Gua Sha and IASTM may be incorporated into an osteopathic appointment where clinically appropriate.

Corrective Pain Relief works with a number of major private health insurers, including Bupa, AXA Health, WPA, Aviva, Vitality and Cigna.

Coverage and authorisation requirements vary between insurers and individual policies, so patients should confirm their osteopathy benefits before treatment.

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What does IASTM stand for?

IASTM stands for Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation. It describes techniques that use specially designed instruments to work with soft tissues as part of musculoskeletal treatment.

Is Gua Sha the same as IASTM?

They share similarities but aren’t exactly the same. Gua Sha originates from traditional East Asian medicine, whereas IASTM is terminology commonly used within modern musculoskeletal and sports therapy. At Corrective Pain Relief, the focus is their application within osteopathic and rehabilitation care.

Does IASTM hurt?

You may feel pressure or a scraping sensation during treatment. Some areas can be more sensitive, but the technique can be adjusted according to your comfort.

Will Gua Sha leave marks?

Temporary redness or skin discolouration can sometimes occur following instrument-assisted treatment. Significant marking isn’t necessary for treatment to be effective

Can IASTM help sports injuries?

IASTM may sometimes be incorporated into a broader treatment and rehabilitation programme for sports-related muscular or soft-tissue complaints. The appropriate treatment depends on the nature of the injury.

Can IASTM be used for tendon problems?

Instrument-assisted techniques may sometimes be incorporated into treatment where tendon or surrounding soft tissues are involved. Tendon rehabilitation will often also require appropriate exercise and load management.

Can Gua Sha help neck and shoulder tension?

It may be used as one component of treatment where muscular tension or stiffness is contributing to neck or shoulder symptoms. An assessment helps determine the appropriate approach.

Is IASTM used alongside osteopathy?

Yes. At Corrective Pain Relief, it may be combined with osteopathic manual therapy, dry needling, cupping, mobility work and exercise rehabilitation where appropriate.

Can I specifically request Gua Sha or IASTM?

Yes, you can let us know you’re interested in it. We’ll assess your presentation first and determine whether it is suitable for you.

Have another question?

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If muscular tension, stiffness or restricted movement is affecting your work, training or everyday activities, an assessment can help identify what’s contributing to your symptoms.

Gua Sha and IASTM may be incorporated into your treatment where appropriate, alongside osteopathy, manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation.

HEAL. MOVE. THRIVE.

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