The Graston Technique is an innovative, patented method to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions via instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM).
What does that mean?
The Graston Technique uses stainless steel therapy instruments to massage and manipulate areas of injury to promote healing. This therapy was originally designed by athletes and is changing the way clinicians like athletic trainers, physical therapists, and chiropractors are treating a variety of acute and chronic soft tissue injuries. But does it work? And how?
The Graston Technique employs six unique therapy instruments and a specific protocol. The Graston Protocol includes a cardiovascular warm up to increase blood flow to the tissues of the injured area followed by Graston massage therapy, stretching, strengthening, and a cold therapy treatment. The massage portion is a series of strokes and pressure using the Graston tools to identify adhesions, scar tissue, or restrictions in the affected area and manipulate the area to break up the scar tissue for easy absorption by the body. The post massage stretching is meant to repair movement impairments and the cold therapy will reduce swelling in the injured area.
The Graston Technique can be used to treat a variety of acute and chronic soft tissue conditions including:
The Graston Technique aims to detect soft tissue restrictions to pinpoint areas for treatment. Using the Graston instruments, the clinician is able to break up adhesions, restrictions, and scar tissue by imposing controlled microtrauma to the injured area. This triggers an inflammatory response that promotes healing. By stimulating the body’s natural healing response and promoting this healing, range of motion, flexibility, muscle recruitment are increased and pain is mitigated.
Patients seeking relief with The Graston Technique are usually living with pain, discomfort, and inflammation from an acute injury or a chronic condition. It is common for patients to experience some minor discomfort as the injured areas are treated. Minor swelling and bruising are also common post treatment. This is completely normal and part of the expected healing process.
The Graston Technique is an effective and innovative way to treat a variety of soft tissue injuries. Only licensed practitioners of this technique are authorized to purchase and use the Graston instruments and perform the Graston Protocol. The Graston Technique is an evidence-based therapy with proven effectiveness at diminishing pain and restoring movement to areas of soft tissue injury.
Dr. Jay Shephard is a trained and licensed practitioner of the Graston Technique and uses it as part of a comprehensive strategy for treating patients with chronic and acute soft tissue impairments. As one of Calgary’s Top 3 Rated Chiropractors of 2021, Dr. Shepherd uses a variety of treatment modalities to help patients find relief from pain, restore movement and mobility, and achieve overall health and wellness. The Shephard Health team has over 20 years of experience in services ranging from chiropractic care and physical rehabilitation to Active Release Therapy and Biomechanical Analysis. We are committed to providing personalized treatment solutions to our patients with thoughtful care and experienced competence. We offer a no-obligation, complimentary consultation to assure you that we are the right team to help you achieve your goals for wellness and pain-free living. Call us at 1-403-543-7499 to book your appointment.