Graston Technique
Graston Technique® is an direct, evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The Graston therapy treatments will help to reach optimal range of motion when a joint is restricted by muscle tightness. The technique uses specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft-tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation. Graston technique can help transform your soft tissue into healthy functioning tissue. This is a common technique to treat everyday muscle injuries as well as a very effective way in treating athletic injuries. Diana Schwahn is certified Graston Technique clinician and she uses this in her clinic on a regular basis. The tools used are very effective with overuse elbow injuries and hand injuries as well as achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. With plantar fasciitis, the tool is used to loosed the muscle in the calf which is strong contributor or overuse injuries in the foot and ankle.
The treatment goals of a Graston Technique session are to reduce the patient’s pain and increase function through a combination of loosening scar tissue on a microscopic level, allowing lengthening of the individual muscle fibers and improving ROM. Use of Graston instruments helps reduce restrictions by stretching the connective tissue in an attempt to rearrange the soft tissue. If you feel that you have an injury due to muscle tightness or limited range of motion due to muscle tightness then Graston is great strategy.
How It Works
What will I experience when I have a Graston Treatment
1) A metal tool will be brushed across the involved muscle groups. This helps to loosen the individual muscle fibers.
2) If it is indicated your practitioner may have you actively move your extremity while performing the procedure.
3) The Graston Technique is not intended to cause an increase in pain. Sometimes you will feel some mild temporary muscle discomfort.
4) The skin may experience some temporary redness.
5) You should feel a relief in your muscle tightness and pain either the same day of the treatment or within 24 hours.
Graston Technique has excellent results treating:
* Plantar Fasciitis
* Tennis Elbow
* Golfers Elbow
* Neck pain and Headaches
* Achilles Tendonitis
* Sports Injuries
* Hamstring Injuries
* Tension Headaches
At Rehab Guru Physical Therapy we integrate Graston Techniques as part of your comprehensive treatments. We see excellent results using this approach for many types of muscular injuries. Call Diana, Omaha’s best physical therapist and Rehab Guru, to make an appointment for a consultation.
