Research Overview rev 02.26.17

Research on Astym therapy began with a multi-disciplinary research team theorizing about a potential physical treatment method with the ability to regenerate and remodel soft tissues. These theories were built upon emerging evidence regarding the degenerative nature of tendinopathy, and the investigations into how cellular mediators and growth factors may enhance healing. Hypothesizing that an external, non-invasive intervention could impact cellular activity, basic science studies were conducted on Astym treatment to elucidate physiologically relevant mechanisms, and to develop specific treatment protocols aimed at stimulating the regeneration of soft tissues and the resorption of inappropriate scar tissue/fibrosis. Specific protocols were developed defining the use of hand-held instrumentation to topically locate underlying dysfunctional soft tissue and then transfer particular pressures and shear forces to the dysfunctional tissue.