IASTM Side Effects and Contraindications — What Research Reports
Common responses (soreness, bruising) and when to avoid treatment.
TL;DR
- Most common responses are short‑lived: mild soreness, redness, and occasional light bruising.
- Avoid IASTM over open wounds, acute inflammation, unhealed fractures, and areas with bleeding risk.
- Pressure and dose should remain comfortable; bruising is not required and not a success marker.
Common responses (what’s normal)
- Mild soreness up to 24–48h that does not limit function.
- Transient redness/warmth at treated regions.
- Small, superficial ecchymosis in sensitive individuals; should resolve in a few days.
When to stop or modify
- Sharp, radiating, or escalating pain during strokes.
- Numbness/tingling or unusual weakness.
- Significant swelling or bruising spreading beyond the treated area.
Who should not receive IASTM (or only with clearance)
- Open wounds, active skin infection, acute inflammation, unhealed fractures.
- Known DVT, uncontrolled bleeding disorders.
- Over recent surgical sites or injections without medical clearance.
Medications and bleeding risk
- Anticoagulants/antiplatelets increase bruising risk—use very light pressure or avoid.
- Corticosteroid‑affected tissues may be more fragile; avoid recent injection sites.
Bruise care (if it happens)
- Pause treatment on that area; use gentle movement and light compression if comfortable.
- Reintroduce with lighter pressure after full resolution.
FAQs
Is bruising necessary for results?
No. Outcomes relate more to comfort‑guided input plus movement than visible marks.
Can IASTM cause nerve damage?
Serious events are rare when avoiding bony tunnels and excessive pressure. Stop if paresthesia appears and reassess technique/region.
References
- IASTM commentary (clinical standards): https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6670063/
- Side effects overview: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5331993/