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ASTYMTM

freedom of movement, freedom from pain

The ASTYMTM System is a new approach in manual therapy that uses instruments to target problems in the 'fibrous net' of soft tissues. It stimulates the body’s own healing process, so instead of treating symptoms we actually treat the pain-generator.

The ASTYMTM System could be compared to combing out a clump of "tangled" strands frequently found in long hair.  With this analogy, the ASTYM instruments can be compared to a comb, and the macrophages (white blood cells that work like PACMAN chomping down on the damaged collagen fibers) and the fibroblasts (that lay down new collagen fibers) could be thought of as the body's own detangler spray used to unlock knots and snarls of fibrosis or scar adhesions. 

Just like combing long hair frequently and using conditioner helps prevents tangles, the patient is asked to stretch and exercise during the healing process so the new collagen being laid down does not end up in "tangles" but instead lines up in parallel with the line of tension. 

Fibrosis (excessive formation of tangled collagen) is thought to "strangle" the capillary blood vessels in the region.  If capillary blood supply is limited or restricted by excessive collagen fibers then cells in the area become unhealthy.  This is like the difference in water quality in a mountain stream versus a swamp. 

Muscles may also become "strangled" by fibrosis (scar tissue formation).  If these muscles are not able to fully contract (i.e., shorten their length and thicken), they become dysfunctional and weak and range motion is restricted. 

  How does the ASTYMTM system work?
Copyright 1996-2003
Performance Dynamics,® Inc.
All rights reserved.		 Adhesions and inappropriate fibrosis within soft tissue can result from trauma, surgery, immobilization or repetitive strain. 

The ASTYM System stimulates the breakdown of this dysfunctional tissue and allows functional restoration to occur. 

Scientific research, substantial clinical outcomes and clinical experience indicate the following process:

•  Soft tissue adhesions and resulting restrictions are identified and broken down.
•  Controlled microtrauma initiates a local healing response that leads to the resorption of inappropriate fibrosis or excessive scar tissue.
•  In chronic tendinopathies, doses of controlled microtrauma stimulate regeneration of the affected soft tissue.
•  Existing collagen is then remodeled and new collagen is influenced by a program of stretching, exercise and functional activities.

 

Once again, Welcome!
Howard Knudsen, PT

Howard A. Knudsen, PT
Independent Doctor of Physical Therapy
Advance expertise in use of real-time ultrasound imaging for motor control assessment and exercise prescription.  Certified provider of ASTYMTM treatment. 

Our clinic is located at:
Jamestown Square, Entrance IV, Walker Bldg
 3585 North University Avenue, Suite 100
Provo, UT 84604
Location Map

 Voice: 801-310-0851
Toll Free: 888-562-7914
Fax: call for number
BackTrainer@aol.com

P. S. Do you have a question about some aspect of your back or neck pain? Contact me online, and I will get back to you promptly.

Or, better yet, call us now to set up an appointment (801) 310-0851 local call or 888-562-7914 toll-free in the USA and make an appointment.  We look forward to meeting you!

Thanks!

Last update:
 Wednesday May 10, 2006

The information and images on this website are ©2006 by BackTrainerInstitute.com.  
All rights reserved.

ASTYM is a trademark of Performance Dynamics