How the Graston Technique Works | Summer 2006 Newsletter

Summer Time Greetings,

I hope that this letter reaches you in good health and your summer plans include some fun in the sun.

I’m writing to let you know of a new treatment modality that I have recently added to my clinical tool box. It is called the Graston Technique.

Graston Technique is a soft tissue diagnostic and therapeutic method that has been used since 1993. What is unique to the technique is the use of the “Graston Instruments”. These are stainless steel instruments of varying shapes and sizes. All the instruments have a beveled edge which is applied to the areas to be treated allowing detection and treatment of areas of scar tissue or adhesions in muscles, tendons and ligaments.

In the normal healing process our bodies repair injured soft tissues with the formation of scar tissue much the same as a scrape on the knee. Scar tissue is not as pliable or flexible as normal healthy tissues. Over time we can build up this fibrous scar tissue in areas that are over stretched or injured. This can lead to pain and improper function of those same areas.

The Graston instruments glide along the surface of the skin and underlying soft tissues. When knots of soft tissue are encountered the instruments act like a stethoscope amplifying the texture of those areas. The same instruments can be used to loosen up these restrictions. Follow up care includes stretching exercises to promote proper realignment of the fibers of the treated area.

Though not appropriate for every patient condition I’m finding the technique is very helpful for many of the common conditions we treat. Clinical trials have shown the effectiveness of the Graston Technique in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, Lateral epicondylitis ie. (tennis elbow), post-surgical low back pain and plantar fascitis. If you have not experienced the Graston Technique and still have any lingering discomfort or stiffness, please ask us whether you may be helped by this effective new treatment.