Graston Technique
Graston Technique® is successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic, acute or post-surgical.
About the Graston Technique
Graston Technique® is an interdisciplinary soft tissue treatment used by more than 7,500 clinicians worldwide. This includes athletic trainers, chiropractors, hand therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. The technique is also used in more than 825 outpatient facilities and on-site industrial locations, by over 125 professional and amateur sports organizations, and is part of the curriculum at 32 respected colleges and universities.
Benefits For Patients:
Decreases the overall time of treatment
Supports faster rehabilitation and recovery
Reduces the need for anti-inflammatory medication
Helps resolve chronic soft tissue conditions that were once thought to be permanent
Benefits for Employers and the Healthcare Industry:
Helps patients remain on the job
Reduces the need for splints, braces, and job-site modifications
Contributes to lower direct and indirect labor and healthcare costs
Research Behind Graston Technique®
Research from clinicians trained in the Graston Technique® at Ball Memorial Hospital and Ball State University (Muncie, Indiana) found that the controlled microtrauma created through the protocol increases the number of fibroblasts in the treated area. This level of inflammation in scar tissue helps initiate the healing cascade. Damaged tissue is reorganized and replaced with new, healthy tissue. After treatment, ice is applied to reduce discomfort, followed by exercises to improve function and range of motion.
Additional clinical studies continue to show strong outcomes with Graston Technique®, often outperforming traditional soft tissue therapies and helping resolve injuries that have not responded to other treatments.
For clinical research reports, outcome data, and published papers from Graston Technique® Network members, refer to their full resource list.
Articles & Books
For published articles and books on Graston Technique®, visit:
http://www.grastontechnique.com/Published_Articles_and_Books.html
Graston Technique® FAQ
What is the Graston Technique®?
The Graston Technique® uses patented stainless-steel instruments to perform instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. These tools allow clinicians to detect and treat scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions that limit normal movement and cause pain. This technique is commonly used alongside chiropractic care, sports injury rehabilitation, and other soft tissue therapies.
How the Technique Works
Break down collagen cross-links and stretch connective tissue
Increase local skin temperature
Improve chronic muscle tension patterns
Influence spinal reflex activity
Increase blood flow to and from the treated area
Stimulate cellular activity, including fibroblasts and mast cells
Promote a natural histamine response
Why Is Scar Tissue a Problem?
Scar tissue limits the range of motion and often causes pain, preventing patients from moving and functioning normally after an injury.
How Is Scar Tissue Different From Healthy Tissue?
Under a microscope, healthy tissue appears in organized patterns—either dense, regular fibers (like tendons and ligaments) or dense and irregular fibers. When tissue is injured, it heals in a disorganized, haphazard pattern. This scarring restricts movement and frequently leads to ongoing pain and stiffness.
Can Anyone Purchase or Use the Instruments?
No. Only clinicians who have completed and passed the Graston Technique® Basic Course are qualified to obtain the instruments and apply the technique. Courses are offered on-site and throughout the year at various training locations.