Muscle Scraping: What is it and How Does it Work?

Have you ever been recommended to try static or dynamic stretching to aid in muscle relaxation and recovery?  While stretching is an excellent option for immediate pre and post exercise care, muscle scraping is your best friend in long lasting happy muscles. 

Muscle scraping, specifically known as instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) uses specialized tools to accelerate muscle recovery and alleviate muscle tightness. Imagine that your muscles are a bustling city and muscle scraping is the stoplights directing blood flow and ensuring smooth, unhindered muscle function.  The tools used in muscle scraping serve to reshape the landscape of your soft tissues, improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and breaking down scar tissue. 

The Science Behind the Magic: Why Does Muscle Scraping Work?

• Fascia Focused: Fascia is thin strands of connective tissue that surround all the muscles in your body, allowing them to expand and contract smoothly with surrounding muscles, joints, and organs. Over time through repetitive movements, strenuous workouts, and even prolonged periods of inactivity the fascia becomes tighter. Muscle scraping targets knots and adhesions in fascia, breaking them down; restoring elasticity and assisting better muscle function.

• Blood Flow Boost: As you continue to work and overwork your muscles, the blood flow can become congested, depriving the muscles of oxygen and essential nutrients.  Muscle scraping directs the blood flow to where the muscles need it most, translating to enhanced circulation that accelerates the natural healing process and reduces muscle soreness. 

• Neurological Reset: The benefits of muscle scraping extend beyond just physical. The gentle pressure stimulates the nervous system, signaling the brain to release endorphins that alleviate pain. The release of endorphins aids in an overall sense of relaxation and well-being. Hello bliss! 

How is Muscle Scraping Done? 

The session starts by lubricating your skin ensuring that our tools glide smoothly and with even pressure. The scraper is held at a 45-degree angle and gentle pressure is applied to the muscle, eliminating tension in its path. Settle into deep relaxation.

Muscle Scraping Benefits:

• Tension Release

• Improved blood circulation

• Reduced inflammation

• Injury prevention

• Breakdown of scar tissue

• Endorphin release for natural pain relief

• Increased range of motion

• Natural muscle detox

Muscle Scraping is used to treat: 

• Muscle strains

• Low back pain

• Neck pain

• Myofascial restrictions

• Ligament sprains

• Shin splints

• Plantar fasciitis

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Post- surgical/ traumatic scarring

• Repetitive movement injuries

Muscle Scraping Side Effects:

• Bruising

• Skin irritation

• Muscle soreness

Where can I find muscle scraping near me?

At Lavender Moon Healing, our practitioners are experts in muscle scraping and provide the best massage in the Paris, Texas area. If you’re looking for muscle scraping in Paris, Texas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Always consult with a practitioner before embarking on a therapy if you’re unsure of the side effects.