GRASTON TECHNIQUE

GRASTON TECHNIQUE

I have been using Graston Technique on my patients since I was doing clinical rounds at Logan University.   It is such a cool and effective technique and I wanted to briefly explain what it could do for you.

Graston Technique is a soft tissue technique that uses stainless steal instruments.   These tools allow me to detect and treat areas of scar tissue, fascial restrictions as well as increase range of motion.  As scar tissue builds up, muscles become shorter and weaker which can reduce range of motion, cause loss of strength, pain, tingling, numbness and weakness.

A treatment consists of scraping, maybe that’s not a great choice or word…rubbing, combing over the area of concern with a beeswax emollient cream which smells pretty tasty- (FYI if you are allergic to bees please do not use this emollient) to identify scar tissue and areas of restriction.  Areas of injury, scar tissue and fascial restrictions will “light up” quickly, appearing red and even produce little petechia (red spots on the skin as a result of bleeding).  The action of scraping over the skin brings a histamine reaction to the skin and brings blood flow back to the area being treated.  

Treatment can be uncomfortable, although most patients say it isn’t bad at all.  The area typically gets very warm, can feel like a sunburn.  Some patients have described treatment like getting a tattoo…I wouldn’t know…I don’t have any yet.  Most people do not have any pain after treatment but it can be tender to the touch like a bruise would feel like.   It can leave you black and blue.  I always warn my patients to notify their family members at home what kind of treatment they have had done and that it may be bruised later, it can come as a big shock to them to see such bruising…please tell them I take full responsibility for it. J

It is proven to achieve faster and better outcomes for acute and chronic conditions such as Achilles Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel, IT Band Syndrome, Lumbar Strain and Plantar Fasciitis.  If you would like more information on Graston or to experience a treatment please contact me.  Happy Grastoning!