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Hey everyone!
Today I wanted to talk a little bit about Graston Technique and why you might want to give it a try.
"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 client outcomes."
Whew, what's that even mean? Allow me to explain.
Here's what the tools look like....
GT uses specially designed stainless steel instruments with unique treatment edges and angles to deliver an effective means of manual therapy. GT instruments are used first to enhance the therapists' ability to detect soft tissue lesions, scar tissue/fibrosis or restrictions in the affected areas.
So what conditions can be treated with Graston Technique?
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)
The great thing about Graston Technique® is it can be used to treat any movement system dysfunction that has been determined to have a soft tissue component.
Lets talk about Scar Tissue...
When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can be organized in a couple of different fashions: dense, regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense and loose, irregular with fibers running in multiple directions. In either instance, when tissue is damaged, it will often heal in a fibrotic, haphazard manner and may appear like a spider web. The tissue may show thickening, irregular organization or less precise margins as compared to non-injured tissues, which results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain and functional limitations.
Scar tissue limits range of motion due to its negative impact on sensory motor firing rates and frequencies. Abnormal sensory inputs perpetuate a dysfunctional cycle of nervous system sensitization, pain and dysfunctional movement/motor output. GT offers a positive method of manual therapy that interrupts and breaks this cycle of pain and dysfunctional movement.
Does GT Hurt?
GT is not designed to be painful or cause excessive bruising. Occasionally, as with any form of manual therapy and depending on a client's condition, minor discomfort during the procedure and some bruising afterward may be experienced. All of us that are trained in GT are also trained to recognize these symptoms and adjust treatment intensity to minimize their occurrence, while realizing the benefits of the technique. GT does not need to be considered "painful" to be effective.
In fact, the following picture should NEVER happen during a GT treatment. This is a terrible abuse of the instruments and tissue!
That's about it!
I absolutely love using Graston Technique to help my clients move easier and with less restrictions. Especially those who use and abuse their tendons and ligaments, this can be majorly beneficial! I'm talking to you fellow triathletes!
GT can be used as a stand-alone treatment for 30, 45 or 60 minutes. It can also be incorporated into any massage service for an extra fee. Next time you're in let's talk about how GT might be something we try during your next massage.
As of today I am the only therapist is our office that is certified to offer this technique.
If you're ready to come in for any service feel free to book online at www.salveocr.com
As always,
Here's to your health!
