The effectiveness of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization on pain and function in patients with musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is popular in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. However, the current literature has produced varying results. The purpose of this study was to collect the most recent studies to evaluate the effectiveness of IASTM on pain and function in patients with musculoskeletal disorders.

Methods

The researchers searched the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to February 25, 2025, to identify randomized controlled trials comparing treatment groups receiving IASTM combined with other treatments to those receiving other treatments among participants with musculoskeletal disorders. The outcomes were pain intensity, pain pressure threshold and function. The Cochran Q and I²

SUBMITTER: Tang S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11908106 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature