02 Sep What is Astym treatment? Astym Definition, Part I
Astym treatment is a regenerative therapy provided by specially trained (and certified) physical and occupational therapists. Instruments are applied topically (on top of the skin) to locate dysfunctional (unhealthy) soft tissue, and to transfer pressure and shear forces to the underlying soft tissue structures. The protocols, the force, and direction of the treatment induce a healing/regenerative response in tendons, muscles, and other soft tissue structures. Astym treatment stimulates tissue turnover, scar tissue resorption, and the regeneration of tendons, muscles and other soft tissue structures. Therapy is typically provided twice weekly for three to four weeks and is done in conjunction with eccentric loading, stretching, and functional exercises.
Astym treatment is a new approach that was developed partly in response to the most recent evidence on the underlying pathophysiology (biology) of tendinopathy (disorders of tendons). Recent medical evidence (research and study) consistently demonstrates that tendinopathy is degenerative (worn or broken down) in nature and only rarely has a component of inflammation (the body’s immune system actively responding to a threat). Generally, most treatments of tendinopathy focus on reducing inflammation, and those treatments have not been very successful. In light of the recent evidence indicating that degeneration is the underlying cause of tendinopathy, Astym treatment was developed with a focus on stimulating the regeneration of healthy tissue, rather than on reducing inflammation, and that is one reason why Astym is so effective at resolving tendinopathies.
