Almost everyone has some sort of scar, whether it be from an injury, accident, or a silly mishap. Did you know that for those greater injuries or after surgery, the body can also scar internally? This internal scar tissue is a natural process that the body initiates in order to protect the weakened muscle, bone, ligament, or tendon. When this scar tissue becomes too rigid or is unable to deteriorate at a healthy rate, it can greatly affect range of motion and cause chronic dysfunction. 

ASTYM therapy uses the body’s natural soft tissue regeneration mechanisms to speed up scar tissue degeneration and increase function. Many people who experience pain or decreased sensation around their scar are well aware of the difficulties that can arise from unresolved scar tissue buildup. And, depending on the location of the scar, can begin to experience decreased mobility and even a loss of strength in the surrounding areas. 

ASTYM therapy can be used in conjunction with your regular physical therapy, and often compliments other modalities beautifully.

Some other benefits of ASTYM include:

  • Continuing your daily activities, there is no need to put your daily life on hold while you receive ASTYM therapy – they actually help tissues regenerate specifically to you and your needs!
  • The recommended plan of care is relatively short – with many patients experiencing results after the first treatment
  • Trains your body to heal itself, from the cellular level! 
  • Regular exercise and stretching are encouraged, so you don’t have to worry about losing progress or strength in other areas.
  • You can actually feel the treatment working in real-time, from start to finish, and is performed by a certified therapist only. 

What to Expect After your First Treatment

If you are interested in giving ASTYM a try, I will walk you through the entire process from start to finish. I’ll even give you a reminder of what to expect when you leave your visit. For preparation’s sake, here are a few things you will hear me say that day:

  • Mild to moderate soreness in the affected area. 
  • Stretching will help reduce soreness, as well as good hydration and rest!
  • There may or may not be some bruising in the affected area, this is natural due to the manipulation of the soft tissues in and around the area, and is a good indication that the therapy is “taking”    
  • I will provide you with a series of exercises that will help the newly generated soft tissue lay down appropriately for the long term. 

For more information about how ASTYM was created, how it works, and how it can benefit YOU, check out this Podcast

https://astym.com/an-effective-treatment-for-painful-scar-tissue-scipod/

Rachel Suggs

Rachel enjoys working as a part of a great team and being a part of helping individuals feel better and accomplish their goals. “It is very rewarding to see our patients progress and become more and more independent and know that I have been a part of their experience in beginning a better life.” She enjoys good music, travel, hiking with her 3 dogs and spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoy watching college/professional sports and learning and experiencing new things. Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) ASTYM Certified Clinician 830Laser Certified Clinician MultiFunctional Movement Certified Clinician (MFMS) Whelton Myofascial Referral TechniqueTM Trained