Graston Technique is a soft tissue myofascial technique focusing on breaking up adhesions or connections between your muscles and the fascia. Fascia is a structure of connective tissue that surrounds muscles and other structures. One of the functions of fascia is to allow structures to slide smoothly over each other (1). Therefore, if there are adhesions present, this smooth sliding does not occur as effectively. Adhesions can cause dysfunctions such as inflammation, irritation, restriction in muscle movement, and pain. The tools used to gently but effectively break up adhesions are most often stainless steel tools with rounded edges. This material allows the practitioner, and often the recipient as well, to feel the adhesions and then treat the area. Graston treatment makes a difference that can be felt immediately by almost all persons.
What does Graston treat?
Graston technique can be used to treat almost any condition that has a musculoskeletal component. Some of the most common conditions treated in our office are Plantar Fasciitis, Iliotibial Band Syndrome, knee pain, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Golfer’s Elbow, Tennis Elbow, Achilles Tendonitis and headaches. Dr. Matt personally utilized Graston to treat his Achilles Tendonitis (on both sides) when he was training for his first ultramarathon with great success.
How effective is it? Will it work for me?
Graston technique has an abundance of clinical successes and, while no treatment will work for everyone, there are many peer-reviewed studies supporting it. The following link provides some statistics regarding effectiveness: http://www.grastontechnique.com/WhatisSoftTissue.html
We offer only those treatments or therapies we feel are the most effective and beneficial for the majority of patients and are proud to offer Graston Technique. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.
1. Marieb, Elaine Nicpon; Hoehn, Katja (2007). Human anatomy & physiology. Pearson Education. p. 133. ISBN978-0-321-37294-9.