The Graston Technique is a type of manual therapy that uses ergonomic stainless steel instruments to gently massage and scrape affected areas of the skin. At Knox Physical Therapy, this approach may be used to help address soft tissue injuries, scars, adhesions, sprains, strains, subluxations, and repetitive-use injuries that are causing pain or limiting movement.
Scar tissue receives less blood than normal tissue and stretches much less. It can build up around ligaments, tendons, and muscles after an injury, contributing to restricted movement.
By encouraging separation of irregularly adhered muscle fibers, Graston treatment is used to reduce pain and improve functional mobility for everyday tasks.
The friction created over an adhesion is intended to promote the healing process of a soft tissue injury, enhance blood flow to the area, and support cellular activity.
Graston Technique may be incorporated into a personalized plan for lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff tears, quadricep pain, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, headaches, shin splints, pulled hamstrings, and meniscal tears. Your physical therapist will evaluate your condition and determine whether this treatment is appropriate for your recovery.
The soft tissue fibrosis area is moved to make scar tissue more receptive before the instrument is applied.
A stainless steel tool glides slowly across the skin until it encounters an adhesion. Your therapist then works over that area to elicit movement.
After treatment, the affected area is stretched. Ice packs may be provided if you experience soreness. Many patients receive two treatments weekly over five weeks and may notice relief by the third or fourth treatment.
Knox Physical Therapy is committed to helping you heal and get back to your pain-free life. Request an appointment to find out whether Graston Technique may be part of your individualized treatment plan.