Graston Technique

Graston Technique® is successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic, acute or post-surgical.

About Graston Technique

Graston Technique® is an interdisciplinary treatment used by more than 7,500 clinicians worldwide—including athletic trainers, chiropractors, hand therapists, occupational and physical therapists.

GT is utilized at some 825 out-patient facilities and industrial on-sites, by more than 125 professional and amateur sports organizations, and is part of the curriculum at 32 respected colleges and universities.

For the patient:

  • Decreases overall time of treatment

  • Fosters faster rehabilitation/recovery

  • Reduces need for anti-inflammatory medication

  • Resolves chronic conditions thought to be permanent

For employers and the healthcare industry:

  • Allows patients to remain on the job

  • Reduces the need for splints, braces and job-site modifications

  • Contributes to reduction of labor and healthcare costs, direct and indirect

Research

Research conducted by Graston Technique® trained clinicians at Ball Memorial Hospital and Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, found that the controlled micro trauma induced through Graston Technique® protocol, increased the amount of fibroblasts to the treated area. That amount of inflammation to the scar tissue helps initiate the healing cascade. The structure of the tissue is rearranged, and damaged tissue is replaced by new tissue. Ice is then applied to reduce the pain and exercise is implemented to increase function and range of motion.

Other clinical studies continue to document the success of Graston Technique®, generally achieving better outcomes when compared to traditional therapies, and resolving injuries that have failed to respond to other therapies.

Use the links below for clinical research reports, outcome data and published papers from Graston Technique® Network members and their patients.

Articles & Books

For a comprehensive list of articles and books about Graston Technique, see:http://www.grastontechnique.com/Published_Articles_and_Books.html

Graston Technique FAQ

What is the Graston Technique?

The Graston Technique® incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal function.

The Technique:

  • Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers

  • Increases skin temperature

  • Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern

  • Alters spinal reflex activity (facilitated segment)

  • Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area

  • Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells

  • Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity

Why is scar tissue a problem?

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.

How is scar tissue different from other tissue?

When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different forms: 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.

Can anyone obtain the instruments?

Only clinicians who have been trained and accredited in the Graston Technique® Basic course are qualified to obtain the Graston Technique® instruments and apply the technique to treat patients. The course is offered either on-site or at trainings offered throughout the year at a variety of locations.