ASTYM Therapy

About This Treatment

Franciscan Health patients are treated by ASTYM clinicians specially trained in the philosophy, treatment and techniques used in the management of soft tissue damage. Our staff uses tools designed to identify texture changes associated with soft tissue scarring and/or fibrosis. Exercise and activity are then introduced to complement the soft tissue treatment.

As the soft tissue changes, pain decreases and function increases. Patients are encouraged to maintain and/or increase their level of physical activity during treatment and to drink plenty of water to assist in tissue regeneration.

Our goal is to help each patient:

• Decrease pain
• Increase function
• Learn how to manage the physical stresses incurred with activity

What is ASTYM therapy?

Trauma, surgery or repetitive strain can lead to adhesions and fibrosis within soft tissue such as muscles, tendons and ligaments. Both scarring and degeneration are common with these injuries and can result in pain and limitations in movement.

Augmented Soft Tissue Mobilization (ASTYM) is an advanced form of physical therapy that promotes remodeling and regeneration of dysfunctional tissue so patients can return to an active lifestyle. ASTYM also reduces scar tissue that may be causing pain or movement restrictions. ASTYM has been proven highly effective, even when other treatments have failed.

ASTYM can be used to treat the following conditions:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinitis
• IT band syndrome
• Post-surgical scarring
• Trochanteric bursitis
• SI and low back pain
• Shoulder pain
• Tennis elbow
• Carpal tunnel syndrome