Marschner, Beth
Beth
Marschner
Presentation: 2026 ND EPSCoR Annual conference
October 20, 2026, Minot, North Dakota
Effects of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) on Range of Motion and Gait
Session
Concurrent Presentation Session B, Exhibition Room
Background: The study’s purpose was to examine the effect of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) on tissue mobility and functional movement patterns. Design: A crossover study design was used beginning with the experimental IASTM treatment. A convenience sample (N=70) of 40 males and 30 females aged 18 and 56 years of age were recruited. IASTM was applied to bilateral gastrocnemius/soleus complexes and Achilles tendons with HawkGrips versus walking. Measurements were taken before and again after treatment. Ankle and knee ROM was measured using a goniometer. Gait and center of pressure (COP) was measured using Noraxon MyoMuscle insoles and software. Length of treatment was kept consistent for both sessions. Results: MANOVA results (p <0.001) demonstrated significance for bilateral knee flexion and ankle ROM between pre-and-posttest IASTM treatment. A statistically significant effect in ankle dorsiflexion and seven gait and COP components were noted between pre-test IASTM and post-test walk. Statistically significant interaction effects were seen between post-test IASTM and post-test walk ankle in plantarflexion and seven gait and COP components. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that IASTM improves ROM and alters movement patterns. Changes observed support that IASTM is more effective when combined with a mobility program. The effects on COP and gait demonstrate altered movement patterns and a need for further examination. It shows support for further research using IASTM to treat other conditions with limited ROM and dysfunctional movement patterns.
