Soft Tissue Mobilization Therapy

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

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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.

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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.

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My therapist, Kelly S. has helped me so much. She’s really knowledgeable and very hands on. I have gotten much better, much stronger since I began to see her and a real reduction in pain. I plan on continuing to see her as long as I can.

Response from the owner:That's wonderful to hear – thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – King of Prussia

The best place for Physical Therapy! Mark Trimble was so patient and kind , very caring and listened to my concerns about my pain. I’m so pleased. Let me add the front desk ladies are so super nice ! Everyone is very nice !

Its a good relaxed place. I did 9 sessions on my lower back and ultimately felt better. More positives than negatives. Couple things I didnt like was the automated confirmation call thing that calls like 10 times in a row while I am at work. I also would say I do not see them wipe or clean tables from patient to patient.

Cesar and his staff at Excel are professional and friendly. They helped me feel at ease right after the surgery and their attention to detail and information helped me to focus on my recovery process much better. I am glad my friend recommended me to this location, and I highly recommend to those seeking PT for their injuries.

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

I had such a wonderful experience at Ivy Rehab !!! The whole staff was professional and warm and accommodating!!! Emily Conrad was my physical therapist and was absolutely consistently amazing and helped me through a really difficult time. I highly recommend Ivy Rehab ❤️Linda Berger

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

Rudy, Aaron and Jenna have been very helpful and knowledgeable for me during my experience with physical therapy. Any questions regarding the treatments have been explained in detail during each step of my therapy. The entire team at All Care Barnegat are friendly, professional and attentive to the needs of the patients. Kind and compassionate people!!

ABC pediatric therapy helps children thrive and gain the skills they need to succeed in their everyday life, from basic self care skills to socialization skills to improving their mobility and navigation of their environment. They provide individualized care, empowering children (with the inclusion of their families) to meet goals set to improve their overall quality of life! Additionally, the positive and welcoming environment by staff and therapists is perfect for encouraging your child to succeed. I highly recommend ABC pediatric therapy!

Been to lots of Physical Therapy for my ankle. When you walk in you feel welcome. Stuff goes out of their way to ensure you get the treatment possible.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, we appreciate your feedback! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, Virginia Beach!

I love this practice ! They took the time to get to know my son. They also spend time reviewing what is going well and celebrating those moments while still being realistic about the treatment plan. They also help parents understand what their kiddo needs to succeed.

Response from the owner:It's always wonderful to hear such kind feedback , we appreciate you! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy – Beavercreek

We have a wonderful experience with Ivy Rehab Kids at Independence ! The therapists are incredibly friendly and patient, which makes every session enjoyable and motivating for my son. They truly take the time to connect, listen, and tailor their approach to meet his needs, and we’ve seen progress because of their dedication. The front office staff is equally amazing—always welcoming and accommodating. Scheduling has been smooth and flexible. We’re so grateful for the entire team here. They’ve created a warm, positive environment that makes a real difference in my son’s therapy journey. I would highly recommend them to any family seeking quality care and compassionate support.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this with us! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids – Virginia Beach – Princess Anne

I have been impressed with Ivy Rehab since we started. Previously we had been at Theraplay in Norristown. It felt like each time we went he had a different therapist. And while each therapist seemed knowledgeable in their subject,, they did not know my son. At Ivy they not only know his goals and abilities but also his preferences — this facilitates greater participation. It also makes it feel much more comfortable coming in, like a homey environment. I can already see some great progress for him. We see all three specialities ( OT, PT and speech) and I would recommend all to a friend.

Response from the owner:We value your feedback, thank you for your kind words! – The team at Ivy Rehab for Kids, North Wales

We absolutely love ABC pediatrics!! Tayler is our SLP and Lindsey is our soon to be OT and I cannot put into words how wonderful they are! 10/10 recommend this place & these women for your children and their growth!! (:

Response from the owner:Thank you for the fantastic rating, we're so grateful! – The team at ABC Pediatric Therapy – Cincinnati – Western Hills

Such incredible people here. Everybody. From the reception desk to the therapists to the assistance. Omg. I just cannot say enough good things about all of them.

Response from the owner:Your kind review made our day, thank you so much! – The team at Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy – Naperville

Caroline provided truly exceptional care. Because of her care and dedication, I finally feel like I’m getting back to being myself again I’m so grateful for her guidance and highly recommend her to anyone looking for someone who truly cares about their well-being.

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

Ivy Rehab was excellent. The staff were diligent, attentive, and friendly. Mide was extremely knowledgeable and provided outstanding care. I would highly recommend Ivy as they exceeded my expectations.

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, Philadelphia – Center City

My son has been seeing Miss Stephanie for Speech Therapy here for the last 10 months. She is a wonderful therapist, and my son's speech has improved exponentially! Also, the staff here are always very courteous, and they have been very helpful in assisting with the insurance process. Everyone I have come into contact with at Leaps & Bounds seems to genuinely care about the clients they serve, and I have always felt that this facility is a clean, safe, and welcoming place to bring my children.

The guy at the facility was so nice, friendly and very professional. Very clean place and confident. I am so glad with the service and support in my necessities 🙏🏽

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 – Comstock Park

The staff at Ivys are very friendly and will try to work with you scheduling e side of your work schedule. The PT are very professional and listen to what you need to share with them about your health. The PT work you to your limits and are not over pushy. They listen to the patient.

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

The therapist at Back in Action was able to quickly identify my problems and gave me a set of simple exercises that helped right away. He has been able to push through years of immobility in an extremely short time. I regret not going sooner!

Response from the owner:It’s great to hear this feedback! Thank you for taking the time to share your review! – The team at Back in Action, Apex

So GRATEFUL I found this place! Ellis has approached my healing in a super intuitive, hands-on, friendly, and creative way. If one thing isn’t working, he will try another. He’s down-to-earth, sympathetic, knowledgeable, patient, and is *fantastic* at manual therapy which I was not getting enough of at JAG Sports around the corner. Big shout out as well to Emanuel at the front desk. He is ALWAYS courteous, happy, and kind. After being met at the other place by a sour face day after day, Emanuel is consistently a welcome beam of sunshine. They also play great music here and have an all around good vibe going with the rest of the staff & aides. Highly recommend for all injuries! (For reference I am here for a torn shoulder labrum from rock climbing)

Response from the owner:That's wonderful to hear – thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us! – The team at Park Sports Physical Therapy, Brooklyn – Williamsburg

Exceptional all around from the front desk to the therapists and assistants. A very pleasant environment with professionals that really care and provide the support needed to rehab successfully. Kudos to all!

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, New Hyde Park