Fizyoterapi Pratiğinde Enstrüman Yardımlı Yumuşak Doku Mobilizasyonu: Klinik Uygulamaya Yönelik Bir Derleme

The use of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) method is increasing. The aim of this study was to examine the studies in the literature to evaluate the effects of the IASTM method on which regions and populations, on which parameters, and to evaluate the effect of single or more session applications. For this purpose, 'PubMed', 'Scopus', 'Web of Science' and 'CINAHL' electronic databases were searched between 1-15 January 2022. Studies carried out between January 1, 2017 and January 1, 2022 were included in the study. According to the results of 29 studies meeting the inclusion criteria; it was observed that the effects of the IASTM method on musculoskeletal problems in the upper extremity, lower extremity and spine regions and the healthy population were examined. Studies examining the effects on many parameters such as joint range of motion, pain, strength, and function have reported that IASTM application is generally effective. In addition, it has been reported that both a single-session application and more applications are effective. As a result, although it has been reported that the IASTM method is effective in different regions and populations, either in a single session or in more applications on different parameters, it is thought that more comprehensive and detailed studies are needed, considering that there is no standard protocol for the method. The biggest deficiency in the literature about the method is the absence of an international standard on the application angle and frequency. The development of an international standard is an important need.