Graston Technique

The Graston Technique is a type of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), in which a practitioner uses hand-held stainless steel tools to detect and treat injured tissue. Trauma, such as a pulled muscle, tendon or fascia can result in scar tissue formation or fascial restrictions, which can cause pain and limit mobility, prolonging recovery. The Graston Technique specifically targets the injured areas to break down scar tissue and promote healing. It can be used alone or in combination with other physiotherapies to encourage faster recovery and preserve range of motion after injury.

Graston Technique Goals

The Graston Technique is used to treat soft tissue, which includes muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. Injury to these tissues can lead to intense acute and chronic pain and limit mobility, affecting a patient's well-being. The aim of treatment with the Graston Technique is to improve the patient's function and comfort following injury by:

• Breaking up scar tissue caused by injury
• Stretching soft tissue affected by restrictions
• Promoting soft tissue healing

How the Graston Technique Works

The practitioner uses specialized stainless steel tools to detect and stimulate injured tissue. This encourages a breakdown of fibrous tissue, increasing range of motion, and decreasing pain. Additionally, the specialized massage introduces a small amount of inflammation in a controlled way, which promotes blood flow and accelerates healing of the affected tissue.

Benefits of the Graston Technique

When used alone or to complement a therapeutic program, the Graston Technique leads to improved outcomes. Its benefits include:

• Faster recovery and shorter treatment duration
• Reduced use of anti-inflammatory medicine
• Improved mobility and range of motion after injury
• Resolution of chronic ailments
• Reduction in both chronic and acute pain following injury

Your chiropractor can help you decide if the Graston Technique is right for you.