The Graston Technique ® is successful in effectively treating all injured, soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic or acute and post-surgical. At the Back to Health Chiropractic & Acupuncture Wellness Center we know, through training and experience, that The Graston Technique ® offers many advantages to our patients such as:
Decreasing overall time of treatment
Fostering faster rehabilitation/recovery
Reducing the need for anti-inflammatory medication
Resolving chronic conditions often thought to be permanent
What is The Graston Technique®?
The Graston Technique® incorporates a patented form of Stainless Steel 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. It increases skin temperature and facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle-holding pattern. Using the technique also alters spinal reflex activity, and increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area. It increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells. It also increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity.
Why is scar tissue treated?
Scar tissue limits the range of motion and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as they did before the injury.
Scar tissue is different from other tissues. When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different fashions. However, when tissue is damaged it will heal in a haphazard pattern. Then that scarring results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.
How are the instruments used?
The Graston technique uses a stainless-steel instrument and special massage method to identify areas of muscle adhesion, or scar-like tissue, that can be improved. The doctor uses the instrument and massage in combination to stretch and relax the muscle tissues.
What are the typical results through treatment with The Graston Technique®?
Historically, the Graston Technique® has resolved 87% or more of all conditions treated. It is equally effective in restoring function to acute and chronic injuries, and pre and post-surgical patients.
What is the history of The Graston Technique®?
The concept of cross-fiber massage is not new. The Graston Technique® is grounded in the works of Dr. James Cyriax, an orthopedic surgeon. The use of specifically designed instruments and protocols is new.
The Graston Technique® has become standard protocol in universities and hospital-based outpatient facilities as well as industrial on-site treatment settings such as Indiana University and the University of Michigan. The technique is also being used in industrial settings and by NBA, NHL, and Major League Baseball Trainers.
The Graston Technique® follows the same principle as A.R.T.® but uses patented stainless steel tools instead of the hands/ fingers of the practitioner.
At the Back to Health Chiropractic & Acupuncture Wellness Center, we know through training and experience that Graston Technique® is another very effective way of breaking up scar tissue in injured areas to increase the elasticity of the muscle. Patients and practitioners can usually feel the scar tissue within the myofascial, describing it as “gristly” or “tough”. Specific stretches are prescribed after treatment and when combined with A.R.T. and manipulation/adjustments, results are expedited.
Call to speak to Dr. Erik if you have any questions about The Graston Technique® or to schedule your appointment and begin benefitting from The Graston Technique® today!
