Budding physiotherapists participate in hands-on training; learn about new tools & techniques

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation (IASTM) is a proficient method for myofascial therapy, primarily employed in soft-tissue treatment. This technique draws its principles from James Cyriax’s , a British medical doctor, approach to cross-friction massage. IASTM employs specially crafted tools to deliver mobilisation to scar tissue and myofascial adhesions. Using the instrument is believed to offer a mechanical advantage to the clinician by enabling deeper penetration and more precise treatment, while also lessening the stress exerted on the hands.

Even though this technique  is fairly new, it is being used widely for various sports related injuries for a faster recovery.  It is effective as a non-invasive technique and hence has gained popularity in recent times.  IASTM tool is helping the physiotherapists to diagnose and treat any soft tissue dysfunctions 

Thus to familiarise budding physiotherapists, the Department of Physiotherapy at Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar organsied a hands-on-workshop on ‘Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation’. 

The key speaker for this workshop was Dr. Simarjit Sharma, a leading physiotherapist from Patiala, who is also associated with Punjab Cricket Association and Kesar Wrestling Academy Patiala. 

The proud alumnus of ACFA was accompanied by Dr. Inderpreet Kaur Bakshi, a consultant physiotherapist at Amar Hospital, Patiala and an expert in athlete recovery and manual exercises. 

In the workshop, students learnt about the intricacies of removing the wound tissue with the help of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation.They also practiced the correct method of using this instrument. Addressing the students, Dr. Simarjit and Dr. Inderpreet highlighted, “By removing the wound tissue, the patient’s wound heals faster and regains health quickly.” 

The inquisitive students cleared their doubts during the Q&A session.

In the end, Dr. Neerja Dhingra, Principal of ACFA, extended her gratitude to the speakers who shared valuable insights with the students.  She further appreciated the efforts of Dr. Neeraj Katyal, Head, Department of Physiotherapy, and other faculty members for successfully organising this workshop.

Sharing his thought, Dr. Neeraj Katyal highlighted, “Nowadays, due to the lifestyle, people suffer with various musculoskeletal problems like pain and muscle tightness. However, they have less time to invest in exercises and physical therapy. These problems need to be dealt with immediate and innovative approach. One of such approach is IASTM. It is a skilled intervention which treats muscle and fascia with the help of instruments.”