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
- 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
Why is scar tissue a problem?
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.
How is scar tissue different from other tissue?
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.
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
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.
Is the treatment 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.
Is Graston Technique®
used alone?
No. Whether the injury is
work or non-work related, the Graston Technique
® protocol is the same. Our
protocol includes a brief warm-up exercise, Graston Technique
® treatment, followed by
stretching, strengthening and ice.
What is the frequency of treatment?
Patients usually receive two
treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by
the 3rd to 4th treatment.
Will treatments affect my everyday activities?
Most patients are not
disabled and continue to perform their regular functions at home or work.
Is Graston Technique®something new?
The concept of cross fiber
massage is not new. Graston Technique
®
is grounded in the works of Dr. James Cyriax, an English orthopedic surgeon. The
use of our specially designed instruments and protocol is new.
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.
What kind of results does Graston Technique® produce?
Historically, the Graston Technique®
has had positive outcomes in 75–90 percent of all conditions treated. It is
equally effective in restoring function to acute and chronic injuries, and pre-
and postsurgical patients.
Can anyone obtain the instruments?
Only clinicians who have
been trained and accredited in the Graston Technique
® Basic course are qualified to
obtain the Graston Technique
®
instruments and apply the technique to treat patients. The course is offered
either on-site or at trainings offered throughout the year at a variety of
locations.