Graston Technique®

Connective tissue injuries or dysfunctions are now diagnosed and treated with an innovative approach known as the Graston Technique^®.

Ligaments, tendons and muscle are all part of the connective tissue and when an injury occurs mobility can become restricted and scarring can occur which results in loss of flexibility, pain, loss of motion and tenderness. Interestingly it is somewhat common to have one area of the body feel restrictions and yet the pain and dysfunction in actuality is in another area. This is referred to as the kinetic chain.

The human body can repair itself in time but the muscles, ligaments or tendons are then scarred therefore leaving that area of the body not as flexible or strong as healthy tissue. Over time there is a build-up of fibrous scar tissue subjecting the damaged area to microtrauma; and overuse of that specific area can lead to pain because the replacement tissue simply does not have the strength.

What Is The Graston Technique®?

This innovative technique consists of stainless-steel instruments specifically-designed to locate and treat areas that exhibit inflammation or soft-tissue fibrosis. This simple procedure allows a health professional to accurately detect where scar tissue is so that treatment is targeted to that area(s).

The Graston Technique^® uses handheld instruments that are convex and concave-shaped. Using very specific methods, the heath care practitioner rubs these along the patient. This helps to break down scar tissue thereby promoting a healing environment.

Graston Technique® Treatment

Graston Technique^® treatment protocols vary from patient-to-patient. They may include the use of ice, heat and rehabilitation to restore s patient’s pre-injury activity level.
Stretching and strengthening are at the top of the list on the path to healing however there a form of muscle re-education that is required. The goal is to have as few treatments as possible that provide a patient with maximum results.

The health care practitioner will develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. In order for the patient to achieve maximum results he or she must adhere to the plan otherwise treatment may drag on longer than required.

The good news is that most patients receiving this therapy report improved mobility and a significant reduction in pain within the first two treatments. There may be some discomfort during the initial treatment but it lessens with subsequent treatments. In addition, there may be some mild to moderate bruising as the old scar tissue breaks down; this is perfectly normal. While an individual is in treatment, it is imperative that healthy meals (and snacks) are consumed that are high in proper nutrients as these too are required in the healing process. Also, drinking a minimum of eight glasses of water is needed to aid in the healing.

The Graston Technique^® has been proven to be helpful in managing many musculoskeletal disorders. A partial list includes:

• De Quervain’s Disease
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome
• Patellar Tendinosis
• Epicondylitis
• Neck pain
• Post-Surgical Treatment

Depending on an individual’s medical condition this technique may not be suitable. A health professional is the best person to consult with to see if this is a recommended form of treatment.

If you think that this rehabilitation therapy may be for you then Chiro-Med Rehab Centre in Richmond Hill can work with you to determine what your best options are. Chiro-Med Rehab Centre has a convenient location and highly qualified health professionals to help you get on the road to eliminating or managing your pain. Visit www.chiro-med.ca or call 905-918-0419 for more information on the Graston Technique^®.