What is Graston?
Graston Technique is a manual therapy technique designed to identify and target myofascial restrictions. At National Chiropractic & Sports Rehabilitation our doctors use this technique among many others to help the individuals of the Greater Baltimore and Howard County area to live healthy, active, and pain-free lives.
Science of Graston Technique:
Graston Technique is an instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization technique that uses conductive stainless-steel instruments to scan an area of the body to assess for soft tissue injury. This is often felt as a lack of “smoothness” under the skin as the tool glides over the area of injury. Once the clinician identifies the dysfunction of the soft tissue, they use a series of stokes, based on the concepts of commonly used in cross friction massage and gate control theory to remodel tissue, promote healing, and modulate pain. Graston not only helps increase range of motion by remodeling tissue, but it also promotes healing by bringing blood flow and nutrients to the injury.
Physiological effects of GT:
· Breaks down collagen cross-links, and stretches connective tissue and/or muscle fibers
· Facilitate proper muscle tone
· Alters/inhibits spinal reflex activity (facilitated segment)
· Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
· Increases cellular activity in the region
· Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity
What conditions does Graston Treat?
Graston is very successful in treating any soft tissue dysfunction. It is useful for acute conditions, such as a hamstring strain and sports injuries as well as chronic conditions like tendonitis. It can be used to treat post-surgically to reduce scarring, and even chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia. Graston allows for greater success when the goal of rehabilitation is to restore range of motion, eliminate pain, and restore normal function to the body. According to studies performed at Bridgeport University, Graston technique was found to have positive outcomes in 75-90% of conditions treated.
With such a wide variety of benefits to the musculoskeletal system, this is a must have tool for the doctors at National Chiropractic & Sports Rehabilitation. We strive to create and implement individual care plans for each patient and Graston Technique is one of many used for the customization of care. If
there is even the slightest chance this modality can ease your aches and pain, why not ask about it today!
Contact us at natlchiroandsport.com or call at 410-531-8000