Graston Technique

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization

 

What is Graston Technique®?

Graston Technique® (GT) is a unique, evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively and efficiently address soft tissue lesions and fascial restrictions resulting in improved patient outcomes.

GT uses specially designed stainless steel instruments with unique treatment edges and angles to deliver an effective means of manual therapy. The use of GT instruments, when combined with appropriate therapeutic exercise, leads to the restoration of pain-free movement and function. The instruments also are used diagnostically to assess the kinetic chain. GT also:

  • Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers

  • Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern (inhibition of abnormal tone/guarding leading to pain reduction via improved sensory input)

  • Alters/inhibits spinal reflex activity (facilitated segment)

  • Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area (angiogenesis vs. immediate local increases in blood flow)

  • Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells

  • Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity.

 

What conditions can be treated with the Graston Technique®?

GT-trained clinicians use GT instruments to effectively and efficiently address soft tissue lesions and fascial restrictions while treating acute and chronic conditions, including:

  • Achilles Tendinitis/osis (ankle pain)

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist pain)

  • Cervicothoracic Sprain/Strain (neck pain)

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Lateral Epicondylitis/osis (tennis elbow)

  • Lumbosacral Sprain/Strain (back pain)

  • Medial Epicondylitis/osis (golfer's elbow)

  • Myofascial Pain Syndromes

  • Patellofemoral Disorders (knee pain)

  • Plantar Fasciitis/osis (foot pain)

  • Post surgeries such as joint replacements, RTC repairs (once post-surgical protocol allows for soft tissue mobilization/manual therapy)

  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis/osis (shoulder pain)

  • Scar Tissue/post-surgical scars (once completely closed)

  • Patients demonstrating central and/or peripheral sensitization (only used in light stroking/brushing mode to desensitize)

  • Shin Splints

  • Trigger Finger

  • Women's Health (post-mastectomy and Caesarean scarring)