ASTYM In San Ramon, CA

ASTYM Soft Tissue Mobilization Therapy in San Ramon, CA

At our Ironhorse PT & Pilates clinic in San Ramon, CA, we believe targeted, effective treatment is the key to managing pain and achieving your health goals. That is why we offer ASTYM (Asymmetrex Soft Tissue Mobilization) therapy, a specialized hands-on method addressing pain and dysfunction caused by problem tissues like scar tissue, tendinopathies, and muscle tightness.

Is ASTYM Right for Me?

ASTYM is ideal if you feel limited by persistent aches and stiffness from old injuries or overuse. This includes:

    • Athletes or formerly active people hoping to return to sports or intensive workouts
    • Those who struggle with chronic issues like plantar fasciitis, shoulder impingement, or low back pain
    • Anyone unable to resolve lingering discomfort despite other treatments

By releasing constricting adhesions and kickstarting tissue regeneration where you need it most, ASTYM can get you moving freely again so you can get back to pursuing your passions pain-free.

How ASTYM in San Ramon, CA Works

During an ASTYM session, your therapist uses handheld instruments to apply targeted pressure and controlled friction to areas containing scar tissue or other problematic soft tissues. This stimulates blood flow, and triggers localized inflammation responses critical to healthy tissue repair. It may sound intense, but ASTYM is NOT the same as just grinding a sharp tool on your skin. The pressure applied is very specific and structured. Your therapist customizes the approach based on your unique physiology and sites of dysfunction. Proper ASTYM treatment should not be overly painful. You may experience some discomfort during and after sessions as tissue regeneration ramps up. But you should feel BETTER within a few days, not worse. Over the course of several sessions, ASTYM rebalances tissue density, realigns fibers, and reduces adhesive scar tissue. This can decrease restrictions, restore elasticity, and lead to lasting relief.

The Benefits of ASTYM Treatment

Choosing ASTYM means choosing targeted, lasting solutions over temporary band-aids. Patients who commit to the full recommended course of treatment can enjoy benefits like:

1. Faster Pain Relief and Restored Function
ASTYM kickstarts the healing response in damaged connective tissues that may have stalled out. Sessions progressively “unstick” painful, constricting bands of scar tissue and muscle adhesions that limit mobility. Releasing restrictions in key areas – the plantar fascia, hamstrings, and shoulder capsule – can dramatically improve function. ASTYM patients experience reduced pain and increased range of motion within just 3-6 visits.

2. Quicker Recovery Times
ASTYM minimizes downtime by accelerating the tissue regeneration process. The mechanical and cellular signals triggered during properly administered treatment enhances collagen production and fiber realignment. Patients often return to sports, intense workouts, and other activities within a few weeks instead of a few months.

3. Long-Term Solutions, Not Quick Fixes
ASTYM does more than temporarily block pain signals. It improves the overall quality and elasticity of soft tissues. Patients continue making gains even after finishing the last session as tissues remodel over the next 6-12 months. By promoting the growth of healthy, elastic collagen instead of rigid scar tissue, ASTYM can help prevent future re-injury. This means less pain down the road.

4. Personalized Treatment
No two patients or conditions are exactly alike. Your ASTYM-certified therapist carefully assesses your unique physiology, medical history, and activity goals. We create a customized treatment plan targeting YOUR specific dysfunctional tissues. Adjusting intensity, instruments, and technique during sessions ensures efficiency.

We also provide targeted, progressive home exercise programs to extend benefits between visits. This individualized approach is more effective than one-size-fits-all pain relief methods.

Frequently Asked ASTYM Questions

How is ASTYM different from massage?
While massage therapy delivers generalized pressure, ASTYM administers precise, targeted friction. Specially designed instruments allow therapists to isolate stiff, scarred soft tissues that other methods cannot reach. The structural, mechanical, and neurological signals triggered go beyond simple blood flow increases. ASTYM initiates specific cellular responses that jumpstart stalled healing and regeneration.

Is ASTYM painful?
ASTYM often causes some mild-moderate discomfort during and shortly after sessions. However, patients should NOT experience intense, lasting pain. Your therapist carefully controls the pressure and friction administered based on your feedback. If any part of the treatment becomes overly painful, speak up so we can adjust our approach. You may feel muscle soreness for 1-2 days afterward as tissues regenerate. Over the course of treatment, sessions should become progressively more comfortable as restrictions resolve.

How often can you get ASTYM treatment?
Most patients start with two sessions per week for 2-3 weeks. Your therapist then evaluates progress and adjusts frequency as needed. 2-3 sessions per week for 4-8 weeks is typical to achieve optimal results. Less frequent treatment risks allow tissues to revert to restricted states between visits. Maintenance sessions every 2-6 months help sustain improvements long-term. Consistency is key, so stick to the schedule your ASTYM therapist recommends.

Can ASTYM break up or prevent scar tissue?
Yes! ASTYM excels at targeting scar tissue and muscle adhesions caused by acute injury or repetitive overuse. The mechanical stress applied during properly administered treatment breaks down bonds in these rigid, painful tissues. This helps realign fibers and resolve mobility restrictions. ASTYM also limits excessive scar tissue formation following surgery or new injuries. Promoting organized, flexible collagen formation can prevent future problems.

Stacey Johnston, Your ASTYM Physical Therapist

Our ASTYM-certified therapist, Stacey Johnston, brings years of managing complex physical conditions to optimize your results. Always pursuing ongoing training, Stacey Johnston remains at the forefront of technique and evidence.

Stacey JohnstonPT, MSPT
This expertise, combined with our gym environment’s emphasis on movement, creates the ideal setting for your goals. Whether you are recovering from a nagging strain or preparing to PR your next race, we build customized plans around YOUR priorities.

Start Healing Today in San Ramon, CA

If painful scar tissue or constant strains are hindering your performance, ASTYM may be the game-changer you need. Committed ASTYM treatment consistently helps 75-80% of patients resolve their most stubborn issues when other methods fail. Are you ready to start fully healing instead of just coping? Contact us today or request an appointment now. Our ASTYM-certified therapist is ready to help you chart a course back to the active lifestyle you deserve.

About the Author

Performing ASYTM services with personalized care is Victoria Liu’s passion. This licensed Clinic Owner & Physical Therapist specializes in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy, Pilates, and Running, drawing upon years of experience to help individuals overcome many challenges. At Ironhorse PT & Pilates in San Ramon, CA, Victoria Liu employs a patient-centered approach, wielding cutting-edge techniques and bespoke care plans to empower individuals to reclaim their physical well-being.

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Surya Pasula

I had PT from Dr. Stacy Johnson for my back , hips and hamstrings issues. Dr. Stacy was amazing. She was able to tailor the routines to help me in recovery within initial 2 sessions. I learned quickly how subtle changes in the way I use my muscles, hips and breathing can have a huge impact on the back, hips and neck! I am giving this review after completing my last session a month ago and almost close to full recovery. I will continue to use the routines given to maintain and improve my strength and mobility.

Shannon

I can’t say enough wonderful things about Dr. Victoria and her amazing team! I’ve been dealing with back & knee pain for years, and the physical therapy program and pilates have made a difference in strengthening and alleviating discomfort. Dr. Victoria is also very knowledgeable and thorough during our appointments. Highly recommend!