The Graston Technique® is a form of manual therapy known as soft-tissue instrument-assisted mobilization. It is one of a number of manual therapy approaches that uses instruments with a specialized form of massage/scraping the skin gently. The therapy is designed to help the Chiropractor identify areas of restriction and attempt to break up scar tissue. The general goals of the therapy are to reduce the patient’s pain and increase function through a combination of:
• Breaking down the scar tissue and fascia restrictions that are usually associated with some form of trauma to the soft tissue (e.g., a strained muscle or a pulled ligament, tendon, or fascia).
• Reducing restrictions by stretching connective tissue in an attempt to rearrange the structure of the soft tissue being treated (e.g., muscle, fascia, tendons, ligaments).
• Promoting a better healing environment for the injured soft tissue.
Most of the back is comprised of muscles, fascia, ligaments, and tendons. Injuries to these soft tissues play a significant role in the pain and dysfunction associated with back problems. While it may not sound like a serious injury, a simple back muscle strain or torn ligament in the back can cause excruciating pain and difficulty with movement. The Graston Technique® offers several potential advantages to the patient with such an injury:
• Decreasing overall treatment time
• Fostering faster rehabilitation/recovery
• Reducing the need for anti-inflammatory medication
• Resolving chronic conditions thought to be permanent The treatment may be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments.
Dr. Lee is a certified Graston Technique® Specialist.
