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Why Runners Need Instrument-Assisted Chiropractic Care

Joey Lee Chiropractor Consult Sarah

February 17, 2026

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Westside Sports Chiro

Running places extraordinary demands on the body's soft tissues, creating microscopic tears and adhesions that accumulate over time. Traditional stretching and basic massage often fail to address these deeper structural issues, leaving runners vulnerable to chronic pain and decreased performance. Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization offers a precise solution that targets problematic areas with scientific accuracy. This specialized approach addresses the root causes of common running ailments in ways that conventional treatments simply cannot match.

Understanding Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization for Runners

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Many runners encounter persistent soft tissue restrictions that traditional stretching and recovery methods fail to address effectively.

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) represents a specialized chiropractic care approach that utilizes precision tools to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. This technique enables practitioners to target specific muscle groups and tendons with greater accuracy than conventional manual therapy.

IASTM enhances circulation and reduces inflammation in overused muscles, promoting faster recovery and improved mobility for runners. Research demonstrates that athletes receiving IASTM treatments experience significant pain reduction and enhanced functional outcomes.

The technique's ability to optimize tissue health makes it particularly valuable for injury prevention in runners prone to repetitive stress injuries. By integrating IASTM into thorough treatment plans, chiropractors can effectively address the unique demands that running places on the musculoskeletal system.

Common Running Injuries That Benefit From IASTM Treatment

Given the proven effectiveness of IASTM in addressing soft tissue dysfunction, specific running injuries respond particularly well to this treatment approach.

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization targets common running injuries through precise scar tissue breakdown and mobility restoration.

For plantar fasciitis, IASTM improves tissue flexibility in the foot's fascia.

IT Band Syndrome benefits as treatment addresses muscle imbalances and joint restrictions, promoting better biomechanics.

Shin splints respond to IASTM techniques that reduce lower leg stress through improved muscle and tendon function.

Low back pain management involves restoring proper alignment and enhancing core stability through targeted soft tissue work.

Achilles tendinitis sees improvement as IASTM enhances mobility in surrounding structures while strengthening affected areas, ultimately reducing pain and accelerating recovery timelines for runners.

How Instrument-Assisted Techniques Break Down Scar Tissue and Adhesions

Specialized instruments precisely target fibrous adhesions and scar tissue through controlled mechanical force that disrupts dysfunctional tissue patterns.

Instrument Assisted Soft-Tissue techniques utilize ergonomically designed tools that enable clinicians to detect and treat specific areas of soft tissue restriction with enhanced precision. The mechanical stimulation breaks down adhesions by applying controlled pressure and friction, effectively separating bound tissues and restoring normal tissue architecture.

This targeted approach improves mobility and function while considerably reducing recovery times for runners. By disrupting fibrotic tissue formations, these techniques enhance blood flow to affected areas, promoting cellular regeneration and accelerating healing processes.

The improved circulation delivers essential nutrients and oxygen to damaged tissues, facilitating ideal tissue repair. Regular treatment prevents chronic injuries by addressing underlying dysfunction before it progresses, ultimately supporting enhanced athletic performance and long-term musculoskeletal health.

Performance Enhancement Through Targeted Soft Tissue Mobilization

Targeted soft tissue mobilization transforms athletic performance by systematically addressing biomechanical restrictions that limit running efficiency and power output.

IASTM delivers precise performance enhancement by breaking down tissue adhesions that compromise muscle function and joint mobility. This targeted approach increases blood flow to treated areas, accelerating healing while reducing inflammation in overworked tissues.

The technique's impact on flexibility and range of motion directly correlates with improved running mechanics and stride efficiency. Athletes experience a 30% reduction in recovery time from running injuries, enabling consistent training progression.

Regular IASTM sessions optimize tissue quality, allowing muscles to generate greater force while maintaining proper movement patterns. By addressing underlying tissue restrictions before they develop into compensatory patterns, runners achieve sustained performance improvements and maintain peak conditioning throughout their training cycles.

Recovery Time Improvements With Specialized Chiropractic Instruments

While traditional manual therapy techniques provide valuable benefits, instrument-assisted chiropractic interventions deliver superior recovery acceleration through precise tissue manipulation that conventional methods cannot achieve.

Specialized instruments enable chiropractors to apply targeted pressure to specific muscle groups, facilitating rapid inflammation reduction and pain relief. Studies demonstrate that athletes receiving instrument-assisted chiropractic care experience up to 30% shorter recovery time compared to conventional treatments alone.

These advanced techniques break down scar tissue and improve tissue mobility, promoting enhanced healing for runners.

Athletes report significant improvements in range of motion and flexibility following treatment sessions. The precision of instrument-assisted methods allows practitioners to address biomechanical dysfunctions before they develop into overuse injuries, creating a proactive approach to injury prevention and performance optimization.

Choosing the Right Chiropractor for Instrument-Assisted Running Care

How can runners identify the most qualified chiropractor for instrument-assisted care that will optimize their performance and recovery?

Runners should prioritize chiropractors with specialized training in IASTM and similar instrument-assisted techniques that effectively target overused muscles and fascia.

Essential qualifications include a proven track record working with runners, understanding unique biomechanical demands and common running injuries.

The ideal practitioner employs extensive assessments of running form alongside personalized rehabilitation exercises, not just instrument-based treatments.

Collaboration capabilities with physical therapists and sports medicine specialists guarantee integrated care tailored to running needs.

Runners should verify credentials and read patient testimonials confirming expertise in instrument-assisted methods for enhancing performance and recovery.

This thorough vetting process helps identify chiropractors capable of addressing running-specific biomechanics through advanced instrumental approaches.

Conclusion

Instrument-assisted chiropractic care represents a vital component in thorough running injury prevention and performance enhancement. Through targeted soft tissue mobilization techniques, runners can effectively address adhesions, reduce recovery times, and maintain ideal biomechanical function. The specialized approach offers measurable improvements in flexibility, circulation, and healing processes that traditional treatments often cannot achieve. For serious runners seeking to maximize their potential while minimizing injury risk, IASTM provides an essential therapeutic advantage.

Testimonials

Real Stories, Real
Results

Sarah T.
"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalised approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
mike li
Great knowledge and experience , Great job Jason!!Definitely will recommend
N “Neens” A
Wow! What an amazing experience! Dr Joey is absolutely brilliant! He was able to diagnose & treat a multitude of issues I have with my neck, back, shoulders & ankle. He was compassionate and understanding with all my concerns and I am forever grateful! There aren’t enough gold stars to show how amazing he is!
DJ NIKCO
I travel 2 hours each way every 2 weeks to see Jason and its worth it! He works with the whole body and is able to give detailed answers to all my questions. My injury was super complex as I have seen many specialists but no one has made any progress but now with jason I continue to see improvement each session! High Recommend.
Ralph
Good vibes as soon as you walk in,professional service,attention to details in adressing issues and providing plenty of explanation and a professional approach to move forward.muchly recommended 👍
Lyle Tacadena
Jason! He knows his stuff! I've had knee pain for months and with one treatment, the pain went from 90% to 10%. Hoping he can work his magic on the rest of the body. Amazing work and THANK YOU!
Shanny Ho
Thankyou Jason for your wealth of knowledge. I saw Jason as a new patient for a chronic issue I have had for quite a few years! It has stopped me from moving as much as I have in the past as the pain associated afterwards was always debilitating: tightness in the hips, pain on pressure on the heel of the foot. Just with the treatment provided in one session it feels better the day after with weight on the heel and my hip feels much more agile. Hopefully with the next couple of appointments I’ll be back to cycling and lifting !
Gordon Holloway
With my experience with Jason great personality very reliable and trustworthy he listens to your problems and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you.
Ramzy Shublaq
Easily the best of the best in the business. I have been seeing Jason for over a year and he has helped me more than any other health practitioner. I am also a PT and currently refer a lot of my clients in to him, and they have all had glowing reviews and feedback. Thanks Jason ✌🏼
CHUNG-WEI TSAO
Thanks to Jason's treatment, I feel liberated after each session, and he also tells me how I can take care of myself, which is very useful , I wish I could meet him earlier.
Country life “Dragon” In Sydney
Jason is amazing i felt releif from a long time neck shoulder and foot pain from first session , he take his time treating his patients , very professional. i have been with my previous chiropractor for years spend too much money and i didn’t benefit , thank westside clinic for best service and treatment
Steve L
I had the pleasure of visiting Jason this past Saturday, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. Jason is not only incredibly skilled but also honest and informative. I appreciated how he took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood the treatment plan. What impressed me most was Jason's dedication to his craft and his genuine concern for his patients' well-being. He didn't rush through the session; instead, he took the time to address my concerns and tailor the treatment to my specific needs. I purposely waited more than 24 hours before writing this review to let the effects of the session settle and to give an honest opinion after a workout. I can confidently say that I feel a significant improvement, and I am grateful for Jason's expertise. If you're looking for a chiropractor who combines skill with a caring attitude, I highly recommend Jason. Thank you, Jason, for a truly exceptional experience!
Raffi Omer
Dr Jason Lee the man with full knowledge and experience. Highly recommend this place. If don't want to drag your pain with continuous appointments please come and visit place your well see the difference in 2 sessions..
John
Jason addressed my neck and shoulder issue in just one session and is now making significant improvements to my lower back. His expertise is evident, and I highly recommend him.
Jason Fong

Have been visiting Jason at Westside Sports Chiropractic for several months now and am really impressed with his thorough assessment and treatment. He takes the time to understand the root cause and focuses on correcting that, not just a short term fix. I've seen a lot of improvement in my condition so far. Would highly recommend.

Tim Booth

Jason is fantastic. He knows his stuff and every issue I have brought to him has been solved with a logical approach and with confidence.I wish I had found him much sooner then I did.Highly recommended.

Travelling Soldier

Jason is a wholistic health professional. Saw him for a long standing shoulder pain. Clear ultrasounds and x-rays. He accurately diagnosed the underlying cause and offered rapid yet sustainable relief in just one session. Now looking at rehab with him in the on-site gym and continue to strength and conditioning long term. Glad I called in !

Oscar Marulanda

I’ve been in treatment with Jason for over a year. I went with a back injury and Jason basically “fixed” me. Along the way, he has provided guidance and advice about how to improve my back.Recently, I have sessions with Joey. His skills and experience are aligned with Jason’s which made you feel comfortable that either one of them is equally doing the best for you.I’ve recommended Jason to my mum, brother and brother-in-law. They all agree that Jason has miracle hands.

Daniel Eishou

Iv had 2 sessions with Jason, iv had neck/shoulder a shoulder issue for years now. He has no joke found the issue given me things to work on and only after 2 sessions it actually feels it's getting better. Very knowledgeable and the session is worth it.

Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

John Lee

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

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