1: How does the Graston Technique® work?
The Graston Technique® identifies and treats areas of scar tissue that are hindering the body’s natural range of mobility. When the body is injured, thick bands of scar tissue can form at the site of injury. The Graston Technique® is used to identify the locations where these scar tissue bands are present. The treatment technique separates and breaks down the scar tissue across connective tissue and muscle fibers. Our chiropractors use specially designed instruments to detect scar tissue locations. Just as a fine comb running through hair will “catch” on a knot or tangle, so too will these instruments “catch” along a piece of scar tissue. Once the scar tissue has been identified, our chiropractors will use the instrument to safely break up the tissue so it can be absorbed by the body and fully healed.
2: Why is scar tissue a problem?
Scar tissue forms after an injury when the body does not correctly heal and the tissue instead heals in a “haphazard” pattern. When examined under a microscope, scar tissue appears different from normal tissue in several ways. Unlike the normal dense, elongated fibers that run in one direction, scar tissue is a collection of irregular, loose fibers running in multiple directions. In addition to causing pain, scar tissue can also hinder mobility. For example, scar tissue can make activities like running, hiking, or throwing a ball more painful, depending on the location of the scar tissue.
3: What does the Graston Technique® treat?
The Graston Technique® can be beneficial for treating a variety of injuries including neck pain, lower back pain, pain between the shoulder blades, quadricep pain and tightness, knee pain, ankle pain, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and a variety of other injuries.
4: How effective is the Graston Technique®?
Our chiropractors are specially trained to use the Graston Technique® to help patients recover from soft tissue injuries. This protocol standard is used at universities, hospitals, and treatment centers to assist the injury recovery process. It is also used on professional athletes in the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL trainers proving to be an extremely effective treatment option for many people.
5: Am I a good candidate for the Graston Technique®?
You may be a good candidate for treatment with the Graston Technique® if you are experiencing chronic pain and restricted mobility following an injury. Our chiropractors will conduct a full diagnostic exam to determine the type and extent of your injury and whether this treatment technique is right for your recovery needs.