The Graston Technique is a type of manual therapy that utilizes specialized instruments to gently scrape or massage the skin. Physicians, chiropractors, physical therapists, licensed massage therapists, occupational therapists, and athletic trainers practice the therapy to break up painful scar tissue and restore mobility to soft tissues. Research suggests that the therapy can improve success rates for patients with acute and chronic pain caused by soft-tissue injuries.
When the Graston Technique is Applied
When injury to soft tissues occurs, the affected area can repair itself in an irregular fashion, which creates scar tissue. While the scar tissue itself might not cause pain, it can reduce the range of motion, leading to stiffness that results in chronic pain. The Graston Technique is effective in treating chronic and acute conditions such as:
- Lower back strain or sprain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shin splints
- Cervical strain or sprain
- Tennis elbow
- Achilles tendinosis
Although not all patients with scar tissue pain are candidates for this type of therapy, the Graston Technique can be very effective in reducing scar tissue pain and restoring function to the injured area.
How the Graston Technique Works
The Graston Technique uses specialized handheld instruments to help break up scar tissue and locate areas of restriction. The Graston Technique employs six basic tools for administration. These unique tools, made from stainless steel, have rounded blunt edges. The tools are convex- and concave-shaped to assist the practitioner in scanning the body and identifying areas affected by injured soft tissue.
Using a special massage technique that involves rubbing or brushing the tool against the grain of scar tissue, the practitioner inflicts small amounts of trauma to the injured area. This process results in temporary inflammation, which in turn improves blood circulation around the affected area. Believers think that this process helps the body heal injured soft tissues.
This Technique helps in breaking down scar tissue and restoring function to strained muscles, pulled ligaments, and injured tendons or fascia. By stretching and rearranging the connective tissue of the soft tissue being treated, practitioners of the therapy create an optimal healing environment for the injured tissue.
Why Choose the Graston Technique?
Opting for the Graston Technique offers several compelling reasons:
Clinically Proven: Backed by research, experts have proven this technique to be effective in treating various musculoskeletal conditions.
Non-Invasive: It offers a non-surgical option for pain relief and recovery, reducing the need for medication.
Professional Application: Administered by certified practitioners, ensuring a high standard of care and expertise.
Neurological Benefits:
Research suggests that the Graston Technique has neurological benefits. When treating a patient with manual or instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization (IASTM) therapy, it is believed that the therapy stimulates certain nerve fibers. In addition, the body’s sense organs, such as proprioceptors and mechanoceptors, appear to respond well to this form of physical therapy.