Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
How does the Graston Technique Work?
The Graston Technique is an innovative, patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The Technique utilizes stainless steel instruments designed specifically to detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation. Treatment with the Technique is conducted in concert with a rehabilitation regimen designed to restore athletes to their pre-injury level of activity. This is accomplished by implementing a functional progression program, which zeros in on imbalances throughout the kinetic chain. Flexibility, strengthening, and muscle re-education is employed to provide the athlete/patient with optimal results within a minimal number of treatment sessions.
The positive clinical results achieved thus far have led to additional research that explores patient responses to the Graston Technique. Athlete outcome data that measures pain and function – including activities of daily living – continues to be gathered.
Product Use and Procedures
The patented Graston Technique Instruments – shaped to fit the contour of the body – are used to scan the area and assist clinicians to locate and then treat the injured scar tissue that is causing pain and restricting motion. Clinicians utilize the instruments to supply precise pressure to break up scar tissue, which relieves the discomfort and restores normal function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the Graston Technique Work?
A: It is theorized that the Graston Technique is effective because it provides controlled micro trauma to the affected soft tissue structures. It also stimulates a local inflammatory response, which leads to remodeling and repair of affected soft tissues structures. The instruments allow therapist to specify the area that is being treated.
Q: Who can benefit from the Graston Technique?
A: Individuals who are experiencing pain and loss of motion and function following surgery, injury, cumulative trauma disorders and tendinitis may benefit from the Graston Technique. Some clinical diagnoses which have responded well to the Graston Technique include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist pain)
- Plantar Fasciitis (foot and arch pain)
- Cervical Strain/Sprain (neck pain)
- Lumbar Sprain/Strain (low back pain)
- Muscle Spasms
- Achilles Tendinitis (ankle pain)
- Muscle Pulls
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis (shoulder)
- Trigger Points
- Patellofemoral Disorders (knee pain)
- Later Epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- Muscle Strains
- Medial Epicondylitis (golfers elbow)
- Shin Splints
A. 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.
Q: How is scar tissue different from other tissue?
A: When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different fashions: dense, regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense, irregular and loose with fibers running in multiple direction. In either instance, when tissue is damaged it will heal in a haphazard pattern – or scarring – that results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.
Q: How are the instruments used?
A: The Graston Technique Instruments are used to enhance the clinician’s ability 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 scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body.
Q: Is the treatment painful?
A: It is common to experience minor discomfort during the procedure and some bruising afterwards. This is a normal response and part of the healing process.
Q: What is the frequency of treatment?
A: Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the 3rd to 4th treatment.
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