What is Graston Technique?
Graston is a tool based soft tissue manipulation treatment. There are six different shaped stainless steel instruments used to address soft tissue problems. Graston is used for improving and the rehabilitation of soft tissue injuries. The treatment addressed soft tissue fibrosis and fascial adhesions. This is a safe non invasive treatment to help restore motion and eliminate pain. Graston treatments help rebuild soft tissue and restore healthy function. Most patients will require 2 treatments a week for a few weeks using the tool on the affected area to invoke the necessary change.
The treatments are beneficial for just about anyone with soft tissue inflammation and tightness. Graston is a very affective treatment.
The treatments are good for:
- Tennis/Golfer elbow (Tendinitis)
- Scar Tissue
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Cervical/Lumbar pain
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
- Achilles Tendinosis
- Patellofemoral Disorders (knee pain)
- Trigger Finger
- Hamstring strain
- Running injuries
Dr Sullivan has a been certified in Graston Technique since 2011 and has a Level 2 (Advanced) certification. Dr Sullivan uses this technique on the University of Kentucky athletes and members and USA Swimming often.
Breaking down scar tissue
Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as he or she did before the injury. When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different fashions: dense, regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense, irregular and loose with fibers running in multiple directions. In either instance, when tissue is damaged it will heal in a haphazard pattern–or scarring–that results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.
How are the Graston Instruments used?
The Graston Technique® instruments are used to enhance the clinician’s ability to detect adhesions, scar tissue or restrictions in the affected areas. Skilled clinicians use the stainless steel instruments to comb over and “catch” on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body.
The History of Active Release Techniques
The concept of cross fiber massage is not new. Graston Technique® is grounded in the works of Dr. James Cyriax, an English orthopedic surgeon. The use of our specially designed instruments and protocol is new.Graston Technique® has become standard protocol in universities and hospital-based outpatient facilities as well as industrial on-site treatment settings such as Indiana University and the University of Michigan. The technique is also being used at industrial settings and by NBA, NHL, NFL and Major League Baseball trainers.