Graston Technique®

At the Back to Health Chiropractic & Acupuncture Wellness Center we know, through training and experience, that The Graston Technique® is successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic or acute and post surgical. 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 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. It 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 range of motion and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as he or she 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 or scarring that results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.

How are the instruments used?

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 restrictions. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed in the body.

Is The Graston Technique® painful?

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.

The treatment protocol involves a brief warm-up exercise, Graston Technique®, followed by stretching and strengthening and ice.

What are the benefits of The Graston Technique®?

When being treated with The Graston Technique®, most patients find they are not disabled by common injuries and can continue to perform their regular functions at home or work more easily. Graston Technique® gives back the control that is often lost when injury strikes.

What are the typical end results through treatment with The Graston Technique®?

Historically, the Graston Technique® has resolved 87% or more of all conditions treated. It is equally effective on 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 protocol 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 at 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 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 in order to increase the elasticity of the muscle. Patients and practitioner can usually feel the scar tissue within the myofascia, 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!

BACK TO HEALTH : (203) 263-0411