You've probably seen athletes with redness across their backs or legs after treatment. That's IASTM — and there's a reason it's become a staple in sports recovery and rehab clinics. At Motus Walk-In Chiropractic, we use smooth, precision instruments to apply targeted pressure across tight, overworked, or restricted soft tissue.
Scar tissue can develop through many ways. The most common ways are through injury or repetitive stress. Your body will heal itself along the lines of stress, this process will create tissue that adheres layers that should glide. Scraping helps by breaking up the tissues, and allows the separate layers to move smoothly over the other. This frees up motion and helps restore your range of motion.
Scraping improves the blood flow to the treated area by applying a gentle a pressure over the area. The area will become red (but shouldn’t be bruised). The redness means that the body is directing increased blood flow to this area. That increased blood flow will allow the body to heal faster.
By improving lymphatic flow, scraping can help reduce swelling and promote the removal of toxins and waste products from the tissues.
Have questions? Contact us if you're interested in exploring our services and we'll be happy to answer any questions you might have and connect with you to explore the right treatment
It's a common question — and the honest answer is: it's complicated. IASTM can meaningfully change how tissue feels and moves, and many patients experience real relief. However, research suggests the primary benefit is short-term pain reduction and improved mobility rather than a guaranteed structural breakdown of scar tissue. That's why we always pair it with exercise and active care to get lasting results, not just temporary relief.
Some temporary redness is completely normal and expected — it's a sign of increased blood flow to the area. Bruising, however, is not the goal. We adjust pressure throughout the treatment based on your feedback and tolerance, so communication during your session is important. If something doesn't feel right, tell us.
IASTM typically adds 5–10 minutes to your visit and is usually done in combination with a chiropractic adjustment or other soft-tissue work. It's efficient, targeted, and fits easily into a standard appointment.
Scraping is not appropriate over broken or irritated skin, open wounds, or active infections. If you have poor circulation, a blood clotting disorder, or are on blood thinners, let us know before your visit so we can adjust your treatment plan accordingly. When in doubt, just ask — we'd rather talk it through than skip a step.
It depends on your condition and goals. Some patients notice improvement after a single session; others benefit from a short series of treatments. We'll give you an honest assessment at your visit and won't recommend more care than you actually need.
At Motus Chiropractic we strive to be the best chiropractic clinic in the tri-cities!
