Soft Tissue Mobilization Therapy

Physical therapists will perform soft tissue mobilization using manual techniques to break up adhesions on your muscles, fascia, and ligaments.

Find a Location

Ivy Rehab / Therapy Services / Physical Therapy / Soft Tissue Mobilization

How soft tissue mobilization works

Soft tissue injuries mobilization is a hands-on therapy technique used to treat pain, tightness, and restrictions in your muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

These issues can result from:

Muscle overuse or strain
Sprains and sudden trauma
Poor posture or movement habits
Post-surgical scarring
Repetitive stress injuries

When soft tissues become inflamed or restricted, you may experience pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Our therapists use manual techniques — and sometimes specialized tools — to break up adhesions (scar tissue), increase circulation, and help your body heal more effectively.

find a location

Soft issue mobilization techniques

Physical therapists will perform soft tissue mobilization using manual techniques to break up adhesions on your muscles, fascia, and ligaments. Adhesions can also be thought of like scar tissue that forms as your body heals itself after an injury to soft tissue.

A soft tissue injury comes in many forms, including:

Tendonitis
Sprains
Strains
Stress injuries
Bursitis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Fibromyalgia
IT Band Syndrome
Tennis Elbow
Running injuries
Plantar Fasciitis
Post-surgical scarring

Soft tissue mobilization can help to:

Relieve muscle tension
Break down adhesions such as scar tissue
Decrease pain
Decrease swelling
Improve range of motion
Lengthen muscles and tendons
Strengthen the immune system
Improve oxygen flow
Increase endorphins

Techniques that involve soft tissue mobilization include:

ASTYM®

ASTYM® treatment is a physical therapy treatment that regenerates healthy soft tissues (muscles, tendons, etc.), and eliminates or reduces unwanted scar tissue that may be causing pain or movement restrictions.

IASTM

IASTM stands for “Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization” such as the Graston Technique, or HawkGrips
Graston Technique incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal function.

Request your appointment today at an Ivy Rehab Network location near you to learn more about soft tissue mobilization.

FAQs

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on your condition, injury history, and goals. Some patients feel relief in just a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing care as part of a larger rehabilitation plan.

Is soft tissue mobilization painful?

You may feel some discomfort or pressure during treatment, especially in areas with tight or scarred tissue. However, therapy should never be overly painful, and your therapist will adjust based on your comfort level.

What is the difference between soft tissue mobilization and massage therapy?

Soft tissue mobilization is a clinical technique used by licensed physical therapists to treat specific injuries, muscle tightness, or movement restrictions. Massage therapy, while beneficial, is generally focused on relaxation and is not targeted in the same way.

Start living your best life.

Begin your journey close to home.

Find a Location

Check out some of our 4 and 5 star reviews

Excellent

Excel Physical Therapy4.9

See all reviews

review us on

This place is outstanding. They were able to fit my rehab into my busy work schedule. Staff is super friendly and knowledgeable. I was able to recover from my injury much faster than I expected. I would recommend this place in a heartbeat.

I am so happy to have found Meryl and Ivy Rehab. She is amazing with so much energy and such a positive attitude. For the first time in a long time, I feel optimistic that I will be able to effectively manage lower back pain. I can't recommend highly enough.

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great review, we really appreciate it! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Philadelphia – Center City

I checked in at Ivy PT with a trifecta of back issues: deteriorating discs, herniated discs and bulging discs, resulting in limited mobility/flexibility as well as leg numbness. Fast forward 3 months, and the improvement after receiving excellent care from Victoria is notable. Victoria challenged me when planning my sessions, but was very mindful of my limitations. She, along with those manning the front desk, the PT assistants, and the rest of the therapists, are super friendly and engaging and I highly recommend this facility.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words; we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Briarcliff Manor

We’ve only started going here 2 weeks ago, and it has been great so far!! The front desk staff is very nice, and welcoming. The therapists are great with the kids; they’re very patient!! I have learned so much already, and have gotten so many resources to take advantage of! Definitely recommend!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy, West Chester Township

John was great explained everything and rest of staff are very friendly and helpful. Exercises are helping me with movement in shoulder. Would highly recommend Ivy.

Response from the owner:Hearing this feedback means so much to us – thank you for sharing! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Island Park

My son was referred here for a physical therapy issue he has been affected by his entire life. The approach used has been the only successful one to yield positive results despite being treated within the local Children’s Hospital network of professionals.

His therapists Jaclyn, Rebecca, and Erin have all been phenomenal with my son. For my son’s needs, the therapy approach has been very effective over the past two months. Some level of play is used in the therapy, but I realized it is to help develop motor skills and balance my son did not have, as well as keep him interested and invested in his own care so it didn’t always feel like “work”. Thankfully, he is progressing very well and is able to physically perform motor movements he could not before. Moreover, he is no longer in any pain.

My son is finally well on his way to besting this developmental issue. For us, our experience has been very positive. We have dealt with this issue for over 4 years and are finally seeing results because of going to ABC Pediatric Therapy.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy, Beavercreek

Post op knee surgery I still had knee pain after my first round of PT. Muscles were still weaker than they should have been. Signed up at Excel and Joe was excellent. He's very knowledgeable about biomechanics, strength training, and used more and different pt techniques than the first place I went to. This helped me gain a lot more strength quicker than than the basic PT routines. My knee pain has been significantly reduced and my leg feels and looks significantly stronger. Very welcoming and friendly staff as well. Highly recommend using Excel and Joe.

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy, West Deptford

I just started going to Maximum Performance for my knee. It’s a pleasant, friendly atmosphere with competent staff and therapists. Paige is very knowledgeable and I’m confident I’ll see good progress and results!

Response from the owner:Maryann thank you for your kind words about our therapists and staff- we assure you that you are in great hands! Thank you for being confident in the care we provide!

In March of 2018 I was diagnosed with male breast cancer that has been certified as 9-11 related. On April 17th 2018 I had a double mastectomy to remove the cancerous tumors from my chest. My arms and chest were totally immobile and swollen.
As the swelling subsided I desperately wanted to get my range of motion back. I am a triathlete and an avid golfer and bowler. Thinking that I was never going to be able to perform those sports like I did before my surgery was depressing and always in the back of my mind. But instead of waiting around to see how it all turned out I decided to take action.
I sought the help of Excel Physical Therapy. They have a great reputation and a local office in my town of Oakland. I met with Jeff Ziegler whom I knew from the Triathlon world in the area. I chose him because he being an athlete understood my concerns.
After working with Jeff for about 6 weeks I was able to attend my annual golf trip and play multiple rounds pain free. Not only that but I’m now training for a triathlon and bowling twice a week in my bowling leagues. I even bowled a perfect game in November. Something I thought would never happen again.
I can’t thank Jeff and Excel enough for getting me back to my pre surgery days. They truly understand the athlete in every one of us.

We have been absolutely thrilled with our daughter’s progress as she has worked with Danielle for speech therapy. She is so engaging, kind and knowledgeable. Our daughter can’t wait to go to speech therapy sessions. She thinks she playing, but we see the progress!

Chewy, the receptionist and scheduler is absolutely amazing. She accommodates the needs of the family with such care, kindness and efficiency. I’m truly blown away. I know it can’t be easy to keep all of those considerations of people’s busy lives front and center, but she does. It blows me away.

Response from the owner:It's great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids – Virginia Beach – Princess Anne

WHAT A GREAT TEAM AT IVY REHAB!
Had a hip replaced in late August 2022. Went to ivy and found i had truly made the right decision.
Their staff is understanding of pain levels, exercise tolerance and necessity of treatment-beyond that, they also focus toward recovery and quality of life.
I don't think I could have made a better choice. Great thanks to the ivy team!

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab, Kokomo!

I love this place… Paige, my Physical Therapist has been terrific. She is very professional and informative addressing my situation.
This place is immaculate and the staff is warm and friendly…
I’d definitely recommend Maximum Performance for your PT and Sports Rehabilitation needs….

Response from the owner:Hi Sue- thank you for all the positive comments about our clinic and your physical therapist Paige. We are so happy to hear that you've had a good experience and will recommend our services!

Start of knee replacement physical therapy….great session 1 with Dylan and we have about 14 more before complete….everyone was fantastic on 1st visit.

Response from the owner:Thanks for giving us 5-stars, it means so much to our team! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Farmville

I highly recommend Ivy Rehab in Conshohocken! I attended sessions both before and after my hip surgery and my physical therapist, Allison, was amazing! She truly cares about her patients and her support and expertise made a huge difference in my recovery. Tyler, Lily, and Kathleen are also super friendly and welcoming, they made my sessions feel like I was meeting up with friends every week and made “graduating” from the clinic bittersweet!

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Conshohocken

This was a wonderful, hard working experience. The staff was experienced, polite, patient and great professionals.
Physical therapy is a 50/50 partnership between you and the therapist. An experience that begins and continous after the last session. Thank you Ivy Rehab!!!

Response from the owner:Thank you for taking the time to share this review, it means so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Virginia Beach – Kempsville

Denise and her team are the absolute best, they greet you with a smile every single time you walk in the door and truly care about your well being! So thankful for Ivy!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Grand Blanc

I can’t say enough good things about Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The staff is knowledgeable, patient, and truly committed to helping you recover. They take the time to explain each exercise and adjust the plan to fit your specific needs, making sure you’re comfortable and confident along the way.

The facility is clean, well-equipped, and organized, and appointments always run on time. I’ve noticed real improvement since starting here, and I actually look forward to my sessions (which says a lot for physical therapy!).

If you’re looking for a place where you’ll be treated like a person, not just a patient, Ivy Rehab is the way to go. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:It's great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Island Park

After hip replacement I had a hard time walking without a cane or a limp. Joe & Holly are phenomenal therapists; they ask questions and listen to me and address my needs on an individual basis. I love how they get to know you & are conscious of my overall needs not just my hip. My progress has been steady and I love seeing the improvement after every visit. I really couldn’t recommend them more!

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your positive feedback, it means the world to us! – The team at Excel Physical Therapy – West Deptford – 1007 Mantua Pke

Ms. Megan and the entire team at Ivy Rehab for Kids are nothing short of exceptional. They are compassionate and patient and have been incredible to work with. It has been so fun to get to know everyone and see first hand how passionate they are about all of their kiddos and families! Very thankful for them and highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Canton

The staff and providers here are unmatched. The absolute best patient care and service. I went for my newborn's torticolis and saw Dr. Matt. My baby loved him! His treatment was extremely effective and gentle. He is very experienced and runs a great facility. I can't think of one single nit pick.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, we appreciate you! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy, Monroe

Have had 2 kids have speech therapy at Leaps and Bounds. Have been extremely impressed with the therapists. Are very knowledgeable of different treatment methods and will suggest different ones that may be useful. Are very caring and provide open communication to keep you aware of progress. Have also been very helpful with any questions and coordination with therapy provided in school. Very happy with services provided and would highly recommend!