Historically, the Graston Technique® has had positive outcomes in almost 90 percent of all conditions treated. It is equally effective in restoring function to acute, chronic injuries, pre- and postsurgical patients.
Graston Technique
Graston Technique® is an innovative, patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that effectively breaks down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Graston Technique®?
The Technique:
- Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers
- Increases skin temperature
- Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern
- Alters spinal reflux activity (facilitated segment)
- Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
- Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells.
- Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity
Why is scar tissue a problem?
Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as he or she did before the injury.
How are the instruments used?
The Graston Technique® instruments are used to detect adhesions, scar tissue or restrictions in the affected areas. Skilled clinicians use the stainless steel instruments to comb over and “catch” on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the adhesion, scar tissue or restricted area.
Is the treatment painful?
It is common to experience minor discomfort during the procedure and some bruising afterward. This is a normal response and part of the healing process.
Is Graston Technique® used alone?
No. Our protocol includes a brief warm-up exercise, Graston Technique® treatment, followed by stretching, strengthening and ice.
What is the frequency of treatment?
Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the 3rd to 4th treatment.
Will treatments affect my everyday activities?
Most patients are not disabled and continue to perform their regular functions at home, work or sports activity.
What conditions can be helped with Graston Technique®?
- Medial Epicondylitis
- Lateral Epicondylitis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Neck and Back Pain
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
- Patellar Tendinitis
- Tibialis Posterior Tendinitis Heel Pain
- DeQuervain’s Syndrome
- Post-Surgical and Traumatic Scars
- Myofascial Pain and Restrictions
- Chronic and Acute Sprains/Strains
- Non-acute Bursitis RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)
- IT Band Syndrome
- Wrist Tendinitis
- Reduced range of motion Due to Scar Tissue
- Achilles Tendinitis