The Graston Technique®️ is an innovative, patented method of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that allows our doctors to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. This technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to detect and treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.
The Graston Technique®️ originated from an incident in 1987 when David Graston, a tool and die maker, injured his knee in a waterskiing accident, rupturing three ligaments. Despite extensive surgical repair, the resulting scar tissue limited his range of motion and strength, hindering full rehabilitation. Traditional physical therapy and orthopedic management failed, leading him to use self cross-friction massage as described by Cyriax. The manual work fatigued his hands, prompting him to develop stainless steel tools to assist in myofascial work on scar tissue. Research at Ball Memorial Hospital and Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, eventually refined these tools into the Graston Technique, a comprehensive rehabilitation program for various diagnoses and musculoskeletal injuries. It’s essential to note that the Graston Technique®️ is part of a broader therapy program and not a standalone treatment.
The Graston Technique®️ (GT) is designed to break cross-fiber scar tissue links, splay these fibers, and increase fascial mobility. When necessary, GT also re-initiates the inflammatory process by introducing micro-trauma to the tissue. This stimulates a fresh flow of blood, nutrients, and fibroblasts to the area, reactivating the healing process in fibrotic and dysfunctional tissues.
Patented GT instruments are used to scan and treat injured areas, allowing clinicians to locate and address tissue causing pain and restricting motion. Our doctors use these instruments to apply precise pressure, breaking up scar tissue, relieving discomfort, and restoring normal function. Six handheld stainless steel instruments are specifically designed to fit the body's contours, maximizing treatment efficacy and allowing access to areas hard to reach with hands, like the plantar fascia at the heel. The instruments, much like a tuning fork, resonate in the doctors' hands, helping to isolate and precisely treat adhesions and restrictions. Unlike fingers, the metal surface does not compress, allowing deeper tissue access. The analogy of a stethoscope, which amplifies sound, helps explain how the instruments enhance the sense of touch.
Before each treatment, a specially designed lubricant is applied to the skin to allow the instruments to glide smoothly without causing irritation. The Graston Technique®️ is then administered in multiple directions to break up scar tissue in all fascial planes. Both the doctor and patient experience a “vibratory” sensation as the tool traverses the treated area.
Treatment with the Graston Technique®️ is integrated with rehabilitation exercises designed to restore athletes to their pre-injury activity levels. This includes a functional progression program that addresses imbalances throughout the kinetic chain. Flexibility, strengthening, and muscle re-education are employed to achieve optimal results within a minimal number of treatment sessions.
