11/12/2025
Soft tissue mobilization decreases muscle pain by breaking down adhesions and scar tissue, increasing blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients, and stimulating the body’s healing response. This process releases tension, restores muscle flexibility and range of motion, and reduces inflammation.
How it works to reduce pain:
- Breaks up adhesions: Overuse or injury can cause scar tissue (adhesions) to form, restricting movement and creating pain. Soft tissue mobilization techniques, like Graston Technique or myofascial release, are used to break down these fibrous bands.
- Increases blood flow: By increasing circulation, these techniques deliver more oxygen and healing agents to the injured area, which accelerates the natural healing process and reduces inflammation, a major source of pain.
- Stimulates healing: Controlled microtrauma from techniques like instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) stimulates a local inflammatory response that promotes the breakdown of old scar tissue and the remodeling of new, healthy tissue.
- Relieves muscle tension: Applying direct pressure, stretching, and kneading helps relax tense muscles and trigger points, which can alleviate pain and stiffness.
- Restores function: By loosening tight muscles, lengthening connective tissues, and restoring flexibility, soft tissue mobilization allows muscles to contract and move smoothly, which reduces dysfunction and pain.
If you are in need of rehabilitative massage treatments we are here to help. Call 209.210.2116
