ASTYM
(pronounced A'-stim) is a treatment which regenerates soft tissue and eliminates/reduces scar tissue. I have used ASTYM as a treatment for
the symptoms I had when I was first diagnosed with chronic compartment syndrome.
Chronic compartment syndrome is a very common injury among Nordic skiers and is the build up of pressure
between a compartment of muscles and its surronding fascia due to over-use and exertion of that
compartment. Nordic skiers are constantly using the same muscles in their bodies as they are training regularly (especially while skating when their ankle and shin muscles are held at a constant angle),
and thus may experience symptoms of chronic compartment syndrome. When the pressure
builds enough, the circulation in the lower leg decreases and becomes numb or gives off a "tingling" sensation. This
is dangerous for a nordic skier as they may lose control of their legs
during a race or in training.
I had these symptoms during several races and it was painful, as well as scary. I turned to
my local physical therapist- Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy of Boise, and we decided to
take action by using ASTYM. Using small, hard plastic instruments, the
ligaments and scar tissue in my tight calves and shins were worked out and regenerated. It
did not hurt, but acted as an actual release for my tight leg muscles and felt
like a massage, working out the knots. The therapist applies a fair amount of
pressure when doing this procedure in order to stimulate the body's healing
responses. A great amount of pressure and muscle tightness is relieved and bumpy scar tissue is straightened out.
Receiving ASTYM treatment was a relief for me when my symptoms were bad, and
was sufficient treatment until I went to college and wasn't consistent with my treatment and chose to have surgery.
I
would highly recommend using ASTYM as a way to prevent and treat symptoms of
compartment syndrome. But, if you are to undergo this treatment, be sure to
follow your PT's instructions by doing the prescribed stretches and exercises
on your own. This is essential to the success of ASTYM and takes only a few
minutes. It is totally worth it because in only a few weeks you will feel amazing again and you can still train while doing the treatment. Consistency with ASTYM is the key to avoiding surgery (something I wish I
had done)!
If
interested in this procedure you can check out Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy's website: http://www.therapeuticassociates.com/treatment/services/astym/physicians/
