The Graston Technique Instruments (GT Instruments), while enhancing the clinician’s ability to detect fascial adhesions and restrictions, have been clinically proven to achieve quicker and better outcomes in treating both acute and chronic conditions, including
- Cervical sprain/strain(neck pain)
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis (shoulder pain)
- Lumbar sprain/strain (back pain)
- Patellofemoral Disorders (knee pain)
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist pain)
- Achilles Tendinitis (ankle pain)
- Plantar Fasciitis (foot pain)
- Fibromyalgia
- Lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- Scar Tissue
- Medial Epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)
- Shin Splints & Trigger Finger
A: The Graston Technique incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal function.
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
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.
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 directions. 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.
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.
A: You may experience minor discomfort during the procedure and some bruising afterwards. This is a normal response and part of the healing process.
A: No. Graston Therapy is used in conjunction with other conservative treatments including: Stretching, Ice, Massage and Manipulation.
A: Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the 3rd to 4th treatment.
A: Yes. Most patients are not disabled and continue to perform their regular functions at home or work. Graston Technique gives back the control that is often lost when injury strikes.
A: The concept of cross-fiber massage is not new. Graston Technique is grounded in the works of English orthopedist James Cyriax. The use of our specially designed instruments and protocol is new.
A: Historically, the Graston Technique has improved or resolved many of conditions listed above. It is equally effective on restoring function to acute and chronic injuries, and pre and post surgical patients
Additional information:
