The Ellipse is a beveled IAFM (Instrument-Assisted Fascial Mobilization) tool created by Myofascial Releaser that helps detect and loosen fascial adhesions, in turn creating optimal mobility and healthy range of motion.
The IAFM Tool Use and Related Products
The Ellipse has a streamlined design that is versatile and durable. It has multiple edges and grooves that allow contouring to different areas of the body easily. Created by clinicians for clinicians and athletes alike.
The Ellipse has distinct double-beveled edges and one acusphere, along with three indentations that allow for proper grip. Each edge of the instrument has a classification name. When you choose a specific treatment to following, the manual will suggest instrument edges by name to use on that specific anatomical area.
The Ellipse feels great in your hands and has a professional and sleek design. It is heavy duty, but extremely light, portable, and very easy to handle. IAMF double beveled instruments can be used with either instrument face, allowing flexibility and ambidextrous use.
Myofascial Releaser also created a special emollient balm for use with IAFM treatment tools. The balm is made of all natural ingredients and remains solid at room temperature. It melts upon contact, yet is not greasy, and small amount goes a long way during instrument use. Promptly clean the instrument with a wet antibacterial wipe after use.
Our Six Week Testing Trial
I focused on the patella tracking treatment in the knee and thigh areas (IT band, vastus medialis, and hamstrings). The available tutorial videos online teach techniques to follow using the IMAF tool for your chosen area. My desired result was to decrease post-jogging pain and increase range of motion during stretching. Below is an example of one of the videos available:
Athlete Evaluation
My treatment period lasted six weeks, with the frequency of 3-4 times per week. Frequency of treatment was based off my injury being a chronic issue, going back 6+ years.
During the first treatment on my IT band, I could feel a gritty sensation and hear a crackling sound. The sound was not pleasant. I assumed the grittiness came from all the years of overuse and muscling through my athletic endeavors. The manual instructed to use the appropriate LEx and LAve edges for the IT band location. I then proceeded to treat the VMO (vastus medialis) and hamstrings using the LEx instrument edges.
I utilized the post treatment exercises and stretching suggested, but my daily stretch routine has the all of these movements and much more. The one movement suggested that I decided to incorporate is the weighted knee extensions. I added these back into my daily yoga routine at suggested increments of 10-25 per set per week, at the frequency of 2x times per week.
During self-treatment, one of the issues I ran into is applying the correct pressure. The first week I bruised my IT band area. I learned that less is more when it comes to instrument pressure, at least in my case. The treatment goal is to create redness in the location with a 10-30 strokes per area per session. After a couple treatments I had improved my technique and achieved desired results.
Three weeks into the treatment I started gaining better post workout flexibility. Hero’s pose was where I experienced the most difference, and I was able to hold the pose for over 2 minutes. Prior to treatment, my maximum time in this pose was 30 seconds.
Instrument Edge Classifications
This Tool Is Worth It
My conclusion is that is product is easy to use and is effective. The combination of the manual and tutorial videos make this product user friendly for any athlete or clinician. I highly recommend this product and have seen drastic changes with my patella tracking issues over the past six weeks. I enjoyed the tool so much I am now treating my son’s ankle and foot and starting treatment for my neck and upper back.
There are a lot of tools out there on the market and some can get extremely expensive if you are looking for personal use. The Ellipse tool is affordable, high quality, portable, and super effective.
IAFM Tool Contradictions
- Local infection
- Unhealed sutures
- Ulcers
- Rheumatic conditions
- Bacterial infections of neighboring areas
- Neurologic disorders
- Diabetes
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Frostbite
- Osteoporosis
- Pregnancy
- Hematoma
- Myositis ossificans
- If taking anticoagulant medications like coumadin, Plavix, or high doses of NSAIDs
- Cancer
- Varicose Veins
- Burn Scars
- Acute Inflammatory Conditions
- Synovitis
- Bursitis
- Tuberculosis
- Hypersensitivity
- Blisters
- Friable skin
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Lupus
- Osteomyelitis
- Cellulitis
- Unhealed fractures
- Thrombophlebitis
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Kidney disfunction
- Active rubor or calor
Anatomical Landmarks to Avoid
Care for your body:
