Graston Technique

Could Shiny Steel Instruments Properly Manipulated Be The Answer to Your Chronic Pain and Inflammation?

 Quite possibly, yes!

What Is the Graston Technique?

Graston Technique® is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables practitioners to release scar tissue, reduce fascial restrictions and increase range of motion. The theory behind this very interesting technique is that by using a tool to introduce controlled microtrauma into an area of excessive scarring and/or soft tissue fibrosis, it stimulates a local inflammatory response which leads to remodeling and repair of the affected soft tissues, and encourages the healing process.  

As the instruments are moved over the affected area and come in contact with adhesions, they help to break up scar tissue and restrictions of the fascia. In time, this process can reduce or eliminate the adhered fibers, restoring range of motion and eliminating the associated pain. The aim and ideal outcome of Graston Technique® is to help transform your soft tissue injury into healthy functioning tissue once again.

Why does Graston Technique aim to reduce scar tissue? 

Scar tissue is thick, dense tissue that appears after injury or trauma. It can limit your range of motion, cause pain and lead to dysfunctional movement.  When SOL Physical Therapists comb their stainless steel instruments over your body, they are able to accurately identify the areas where there is fibrotic tissue restriction. After the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body.  The Graston Technique® can be used through muscles, tendons and ligaments, and on a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions.

Graston Technique® is generally not used completely on its own. It is often combined with other forms of advanced healing treatments such as Active Release Techniques® (ART).  The full treatments includes brief warm-up exercises, Graston and/or ART treatments, followed by stretching and strengthening activities. Ice can also be a part of the follow-up portion of treatment if subacute inflammation (inflammation that lasts longer than acute inflammation but is not chronic) is present.

Graston Technique Precautions

When used by a trained Physical Therapist, the technique is considered to be very safe.  The most common side effects of a Graston Technique® is minor discomfort during the session and bruising afterwards. You also might be mildly sore afterwards. Graston Technique® is not meant to be especially painful or cause excessive bruising. Graston Technique® does not need to be considered painful in order for it to be effective so definitely speak up if you are experiencing discomfort anytime during treatment. We are available at Oakland, CA center.