Muscle Scraping (IASTM) –

Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil

Muscle Scraping, also known as IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation), is a hands-on therapy used to reduce muscular tightness, improve mobility and support recovery from everyday strain, training-related tension and soft-tissue discomfort.


Using smooth, specialised tools, IASTM allows for precise, controlled treatment of tight or restricted tissues, often reaching deeper layers more comfortably than hands alone. Sessions take place in a calm, private setting in Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil, and can be tailored to the lower body, upper body, a specific injury, or combined with other techniques for a more comprehensive approach.

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What IASTM Can Help With

Muscle Scraping may help with:


  1. muscular tightness and stiffness
  2. restricted movement and reduced flexibility
  3. tension related to posture, work or training
  4. soft-tissue discomfort from overuse or repetitive movements
  5. movement imbalances and asymmetry
  6. supporting recovery after physical activity


Many clients report feeling looser, more comfortable and able to move more freely following treatment.

Who It’s Ideal For

This treatment is well suited to:


  1. people with persistent tightness in specific areas
  2. gym-goers, runners and active individuals
  3. those recovering from soft-tissue injuries
  4. desk-based workers with postural tension
  5. clients who want targeted therapy rather than general massage
  6. anyone looking to improve movement quality and comfort


Treatment pressure and intensity are adjusted to suit your comfort and goals.

Does Muscle Scraping Hurt?

Although the tools can look intimidating, IASTM is not intended to be painful and is not performed with the aim of leaving marks or bruising. Most people describe the sensation as a firm, warming or dragging feeling, with mild tenderness only in particularly tight areas. Pressure is always adjusted to suit your comfort.


IASTM is sometimes confused with Gua Sha, which deliberately creates marks as part of its traditional approach. IASTM is used from a Western, clinically informed perspective, focusing on improving tissue mobility and movement quality rather than causing visible marking. Any temporary redness is a normal circulatory response and typically fades quickly.

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Treatment Options

Lower Body Muscle Scraping (IASTM)

A comprehensive lower-body session covering the lower back, glutes, quads, hamstrings, calves, Achilles and plantar areas. This treatment helps ease widespread tightness, improve mobility and support smoother movement through the entire lower chain.


Upper Body Muscle Scraping (IASTM)

A focused session for the neck, shoulders, upper back, chest, and arms. Ideal for relieving tension linked to posture, desk work or repetitive upper-body strain, while supporting freer, more comfortable movement.


Injury-Specific Muscle Scraping (IASTM)

A targeted session dedicated to one specific injury or problem area. IASTM uses smooth, handheld tools to gently break down tension, improve soft-tissue mobility and encourage better movement in restricted or irritated tissues. This approach is ideal for overuse injuries, persistent tightness or areas that feel “stuck” or uncomfortable, helping support recovery and restore more natural function.


Combination Therapy (Effleurage + Muscle Scraping + Dry Cupping)

A blended treatment designed to focus on one main injury or problem area. The session begins with gentle effleurage to warm and prepare the tissues, followed by focused IASTM to release tight soft tissue and improve mobility, and finishes with dry cupping to decompress the area, boost circulation and further ease discomfort. Together, these techniques provide a well-rounded, effective approach to improving movement and reducing pain.

Why Choose IASTM?

  1. Precise and targeted treatment
  2. Reaches deeper layers of soft tissue comfortably
  3. Helps improve flexibility and movement quality
  4. Complements rehabilitation and performance goals
  5. Can be used alone or combined with other therapies
  6. Delivered one-to-one in Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil

Book Your Session

Lower body, upper body, injury-specific and combination therapy options are available.

If you’re looking to reduce tightness, improve mobility or address a specific issue,

you can book your Muscle Scraping (IASTM) session below.

IASTM Packages

Muscle Scraping is commonly delivered as part of a short treatment plan. Sessions are typically carried out 1–2 times per week, and in some cases more frequently, to support improvements in tissue mobility and movement quality. Many people notice benefits or improvements after a single session, while others benefit from a brief course of treatment.

Conveniently located in Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil


The Fitness Charter's sports massage services are run out of Live Life Chiropractic and Health Clinic in Troedyrhiw, Merthyr Tydfil, just a short stroll from the train station — making it easy to reach whether you’re coming from nearby or further afield. Plus, there’s free parking available close by, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot when you arrive.


We’ve created a calm and welcoming space where you can truly relax and focus on your wellbeing. Whether you’re popping in after a workout or scheduling regular sessions, you’ll find us easy to access and ready to support your health and recovery.