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Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

IASTM: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia

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I have almost completed my CPT certification and am half-way through the Human Movement certification to inform my massage practice. The different modalities of reading, watching audiovisual materials, and attending live or recorded webinars have been important to my learning style and for review.

Brookbush Institute has the most detailed, specific and effective tools for online learning for movement and/or bodywork professionals. I love the combination of the videos as well as the text available online.

I recently completed the CPT course. It was demanding yet practical. I would highly recommend it for anyone wanting an education about human movement.

I have my personal trainer certificate through here and am almost finished my human movement specialist certification. Overall, the education that Brookbush has packaged together for clinicians and trainers is invaluable. I am a physio assistant so coming from more of a rehab background I appreciate that this education has been beneficial both as a trainer and in a rehab setting. I love that I have been able to do all learning at my own pace and able to work around my schedule. Thank you for setting up this platform! Highly recommend :)

I have been a massage therapist for 10 yrs and I feel like all the “pieces” I’ve learned throughout the yrs have been put into place and can see the full picture. I am also a member to tons of great content since I love to learn! I plan to get my CPT through them as well.

I have been following Brent Brookbush for nearly a decade- back when I was a personal Trainer and now as a Physical Therapist. BBI is an incredible resource for any movement nerds and corrective exercise specialists! The information is thorough with multiple real world applications. I am looking forward to an in-person Manual Therapist course the second they do one a little bit closer to Virginia ;)

I have taken both the Human Movement Specialist and Certified Personal Trainer certificate programs and have found the value in understanding the how and ways the body moves and functions and from evidence, non-biased, outcome, conceptual, theoretical, and practical approach to helping my clients/patients look better, feel better, and move better.

Over the last years I've returned time and again to Brookbush Institute for stellar coursework as I've worked toward a Human Movement Specialist certification. (I'm currently ACE CPT, and in training with Anatomy Trains for Structural Integration Manual Therapy.) Every Brookbush Institute module is fantastic and each one includes detailed informational videos, written descriptions of how to-do, and, more importantly, why to-do!

I am a 70 yr old chiropractor and no other healthcare provider was able to come up with an exercise protocol particular to my structural and balances and muscle deficits and keep me in the game. And as for continuing education on human skeletal movement, the website is phenomenal full of great exercises for particular mechanical dysfunction.

The H.M.S. is the most valuable certificate I have earned and was a fraction of the the cost of my others. Define the best bang for your buck!

Brookbush is the most efficient Personal Training Certification I have ever come across. All the lessons are well thought out and very straight to the point.

I am getting my Master's degree in Kinesiology, and I would like to say that I have benefited greatly from the rich, comprehensive, well-documented scientific content of Brookbush Institute that links theory to practical applications. Proudly I've got my CPT certificate, and I am on my way to get my HMS certificate.

Having courses count towards different certifications makes it so users can transition seamlessly from one certification to another. In my case, going from earning the BI CPT to earning the BI HMS was an easy decision and I am proud to have earned both certifications. I have also had the pleasure of going to a Live HMS workshop that was well taught by Instructor Boettcher and that was excellent to see how the methods and techniques are implemented.



I have been a member of BBI for years and every course I have taken has been incredibly informative. I learn more from these courses than I do at local CEU courses for my PTA license. I also earned my CPT and HMS certifications through the platform. It was so convenient and the content was top notch! Forever member.

We learn principles in academia, we learn cool new modalities via whatever specialty certification, but BBI really concentrates on the nuances of passive treatment and they do a fantastic job. The format in which BBI instructs soft tissue specialists (DPTs, Chiros, ATs) like myself feels like almost like an apprenticeship. You get a thoroughly detailed explanation of the “why’s”, and a visual comprehension of how to apply. Personally, I believe application is where the good and the great are distinguished.

Brookbush has been incredibly helpful since I was in massage school and now as I’m in my career! I run my own practice and it gives me the resources I need to not only improve what I already know, but also help me navigate better, more efficient ways of treatment.

Totally loving the convenience and affordability of this program with my crazy lifestyle! I feel like I am getting a quality education without a massive cost! My favorite part is the videos I can watch in the courses. I learn so much better that way. Once I really spent more time on the site, I figured out how to maneuver around a lot better! I enjoy the sense of humor, as well as the easy explanation, and short tests. And if I am really tired, I can have the computer read me the lessons. 😁

Challenging concepts are explained in very understandable terms without dumbing down the material, and I find this program to be superior in quality to other personal training programs.

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Integrated Manual Therapist

Chapter 1: Course Summary

This course describes instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) for the fascial sheaths of the cervical spine and cervicothoracic junction, including the superficial cervical fascia and the fascia overlying the trapezius muscles, up to the borders of pectoral fascia (superficial chest fascia), infraspinatus fascia (superficial scapula fascia), and deltoid fascia (shoulder muscle fascia). Note, IASTM for these fascial sheaths bordering the cervical fascia are covered in the course 

. Additionally, modifications of the techniques are discussed, incorporating specific treatments for trigger points, and pin and stretch techniques with IASTM.

Unfortunately, it is easy to be confused by a large number of synonyms for the techniques in this course. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a technique that generally includes the application of shear force (scraping) to skin and superficial fascia using a tool with a rounded, but relatively acute edge. IASTM could be viewed as a Western approach to a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique called Gua Sha. While the application of IASTM is most commonly based on orthopedic assessment with stainless steel tools, the application of Gua Sha is based on TCM-specific assessments and jade or stone tools. Graston is the most well-known brand of IASTM stainless steel tools; however, we do prefer 

 based on the quality, edge, and price. Note, historically the origin of these techniques is undoubtedly Gua Sha, which is perhaps 1000s of years old, Graston popularized IASTM in the Western world, and now there are many brands and tools to choose from.

The techniques in this course are recommended as an adjunct mobility technique, included in an integrated program that already includes or has considered soft-tissue release techniques, joint mobilization and manipulation techniques, and or lengthening stretching techniques. The addition of IASTM may be especially beneficial for individuals assessed with range of motion (ROM) restriction of the cervical spine, thoracic spine, or perhaps the upper extremity. They may be included in a program designed to address chronic neck pain, cervicogenic headache, active trapezius muscle trigger points, loss of cervical range of motion (ROM), scapular dyskinesis, upper thoracic spine pain, and/or shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS). Further, these techniques may be beneficial for those with assessed impairments including, forward head posture (increased cervical vertebral angle), 

 (upper crossed syndrome), and/or rounded shoulder posture (RSP).

The techniques in this course are recommended for all clinical human movement professionals (physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, athletic trainers, massage therapists, chiropractors, occupational therapists, etc.) with the intent of developing an 

, patient-centered, and outcome-driven approach.

Thoracic, Infraspinatus and Deltoid Fascia IASTM

Course Summary: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Introduction: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM

Chapter 3: Position Statement

Position Statement and Research Summary

Chapter 4: Systematic Research

Systematic Research Review

Research Corner

Chapter 5: IASTM Technique and Emollient

IASTM: Technique and Emollient Recommendations

Chapter 6: Cervical Fascial IASTM

Cervical Fascia IASTM

Chapter 7: Thoracic IASTM

Thoracic, Infraspinatus, and Deltoid Fascia IASTM

Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM: Technique and Videos

Gulick, D. T. (2014). Influence of instrument assisted soft tissue treatment techniques on myofascial trigger points. 

Journal of bodywork and movement therapies

Bryant, T., Buczynski, M., Gant, C., & Gill, R. (2012). Algometric Characterization of Gua Sha in the Upper Trapezius.

Saha, F. J., Brummer, G., Lauche, R., Ostermann, T., Choi, K. E., Rampp, T., ... & Cramer, H. (2019). Gua Sha therapy for chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. 

Complementary therapies in clinical practice

Gulick, D. T. (2018). Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization increases myofascial trigger point pain threshold. 

Xingze, W., Baohui, J., Houyong, Z., Xingyu, H., Rong, C., & Jinsheng, Y. (2019). Effects of Gua Sha therapy on weightlifting training: a randomized trial. 

IASTM compared to Heat, Stretching, and Therapeutic Exercise

Braun, M., Schwickert, M., Nielsen, A., Brunnhuber, S., Dobos, G., Musial, F., ... & Michalsen, A. (2011). Effectiveness of traditional Chinese “gua sha” therapy in patients with chronic neck pain: a randomized controlled trial. 

Mahgoub, M. S. E., Abdelraouf, N. A., Elshafey, M. A., Eldesoky, M. T., Aly, S. M., Zahran, S. S., & Abutaleb, E. E. (2022). Graston Technique Versus Soft Tissue Release on Myofascial Neck Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. 

Revista iberoamericana de psicología del ejercicio y el deporte

Mostafa, M. S. E. M., Abdelraouf, N. A., Eldein, Z. S., Mohamed, M. I. A. E., & Abdalla, M. R. EFFECT OF INSTRUMENT ASSISTED SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION ON MECHANICAL NECK PAIN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL. 

Turkish Journal of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Paranjape, S., & Lad, R. (2020). Comparison of manual versus instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization of levator scapulae in chronic neck pain. 

International Journal of research and Review

El-Hafez, H. M., Hamdy, H. A., Takla, M. K., Ahmed, S. E. B., Genedy, A. F., & Al Shaymaa, S. (2020). Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization versus stripping massage for upper trapezius myofascial trigger points. 

Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences

IASTM compared to Trigger Point Techniques (Dry Needling, Ischemic Compression, Integrated Neurmuscular Inhibition)

YOUSSEF, E. F., MOHAMED, N. A., MOHAMMED, M. M., & AHMAD, H. A. (2020). Trigger Point Release versus Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Upper Trapezius Trigger Points in Mechanical Neck Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial. 

Haq, K., & Riaz, H. (2022). Comparison of dry needling and Graston technique on Active Myofascial trigger points in the upper trapezius. 

Aksan Sadikoglu, B., Analay Akbaba, Y., & Taskiran, H. (2022). Effects of ischemic compression and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization techniques in trigger point therapy in patients with rotator cuff pathology: randomized controlled study. Somatosensory & Motor Research, 39(1), 70-80.

Thakur, R., Mande, P., & Lokwani, M. (2022). Effectiveness of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation in the Management of Upper Trapezius Myofascial Trigger Points. 

Indian Journal of Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy Print-(ISSN 0973-5666) and Electronic–(ISSN 0973-5674)

IASTM compared to Joint Intended Techniques (Joint Mobilizations and Manipulations)

Crothers, A. L., French, S. D., Hebert, J. J., & Walker, B. F. (2016). Spinal manipulative therapy, Graston technique and placebo for non-specific thoracic spine pain: a randomized controlled trial. Chiropractic & manual therapies, 24, 1-9.

Zaghloul, H. M. S., Ghally, S. A. O., Abdelkhalek, M. M. T., Mohamed, M. T., Mahmoud, L. S. E. D., & Ghaly, L. A. O. (2022). Comparison between upper thoracic spine mobilization and the Ergon technique in the treatment of mechanical neck pain. 

SPORT TK-Revista EuroAmericana de Ciencias del Deporte

Comparing the Addition of IASTM to Conventional Therapy (Infrared, ROM Exercises and Stretching, Postural Exercises, and Isometrics)

Saad, N. G., Yamany, A. A., Azzam, A. A., & Grase, M. O. (2021). Effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on trigger points of tension headache. Turkish Journal of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, 32, 3.

Mahmood, T., Afzal, M. W., Waseem, I., Arif, M. A., & Mahmood, W. (2022). Comparative Effectiveness of Routine Physical Therapy with and without Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization for Improving Pain and Disability in Patients with Neck Pain Due to Upper Crossed Syndrome. 

Erden, A., Şenocak, E., Kalaycıoğlu, A., & Aktürk, A. (2020). Effectiveness of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization in myofascial pain syndrome: preliminary results of a randomized controlled trial. Sports Medicine Journal/Medicina Sportivâ, 16(1).

Comparing the Addition of IASTM to Release Techniques and Specific Exercise

Mylonas, K., Angelopoulos, P., Billis, E., Tsepis, E., & Fousekis, K. (2021). Combining targeted instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization applications and neuromuscular exercises can correct forward head posture and improve the functionality of patients with mechanical neck pain: a randomized control study. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 22(1), 1-9.

Kumar, V. N. (2020). Effect of Sub Occipital Release, Myofascial Release with Iastm Tool on Cervicogenic Headache. 

Banerjee, R. (2021). Effectiveness of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization technique on cervicogenic headache in smartphone-addicted college students: a pilot study.

IASTM: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia

Related Courses:

Course Summary: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Introduction: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM

Research Corner
2 Sub Sections

Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM: Technique and Videos
3 Sub Sections

Bibliography

Related Courses:

Comments

Guest

IASTM: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia

Related Courses:

Course Summary: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Introduction: Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM

Research Corner2 Sub Sections

Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM: Technique and Videos3 Sub Sections

Bibliography

Related Courses:

Comments

Guest

Research Corner
2 Sub Sections

Cervical and Thoracic Spine Fascia IASTM: Technique and Videos
3 Sub Sections