Graston Technique (Muscle Scraping)
Brodie Pack has been certified in Graston Technique (GT) since 2013. Graston Technique® (GT) Therapy is an evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that allows for precise detection and treatment of fascial restrictions as well as muscle and tendon dysfunction. Following the kinetic chain, GT Therapy Providers can target and specifically treat affected tissues often resolving issues once thought to be permanent utilizing specifically designed instruments.
Graston Technique® (GT) is a unique, evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively and efficiently address soft tissue lesions and fascial restrictions resulting in improved patient outcomes. Muscle scraping requires specially designed stainless steel instruments with unique treatment edges and angles to deliver an effective means of manual therapy. Graston Technique® instruments are designed to amplify tissue texture, allowing the clinician to better identify abnormalities. The use of GT instruments, when combined with appropriate therapeutic exercise, leads to the restoration of pain-free movement and function. The instruments also are used diagnostically to assess the kinetic chain, in an efficient manner using the principles of regional interdependence.
Empirical and anecdotal evidence exists for the following physiological effects of GT:
- Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers
- Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern (inhibition of abnormal tone/guarding leading to pain reduction via improved sensory input)
- Alters/inhibits spinal reflex activity (facilitated segment)
- Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area (angiogenesis vs. immediate local increases in blood flow)
- Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells
- Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity
The use of Graston Technique’s specially designed instruments and protocol has been a recognized part of the manual therapy industry for more than 25 years. Graston Technique® has become standard protocol in many universities and hospital-based outpatient facilities as well as industrial on-site treatment settings.
Graston Technique® Providers utilizing GT Therapy are often the top clinicians in their field. Some find so much value in the technique that they go on to become instructors. Because the training is so specialized, only Graston Trained Clinicians are able to purchase these specialty instruments, giving them an extra leg up on competition.
Graston Technique® Clinicians are trained specifically NOT to cause pain and bruising. As such, they will only sell their instruments to Graston Technique® Clinicians who have been properly trained at one of Graston Technique’s award-winning trainings. Think of it as a prescription for a treatment – it needs to be performed by a skilled clinician who is able to determine the appropriate dosage in order to achieve the optimal therapeutic load.
It’s more like remodeling. Rather than breaking up tissue, we are applying specific force into the tissue to stimulate specific physiological processes. When cells sense a mechanical load (the instruments), a biochemical reaction occurs within the cell itself, influencing growth, remodeling, and repair. The ultimate outcome is altered tissue mass, structure, and quality.
Using muscle scraping instruments allows the clinician to assess tissue for abnormalities or dysfunction with instruments, perform treatment using any number of Graston Technique’s 14 unique treatment strokes and utilize unique protocols that include active exercise to promote tissue remodeling
Why Graston Technique® Instruments?
- Increased diagnostic skills
- mechanical advantage
- specificity of tissue treatmentDecreased treatment time
- Reduced clinician fatigue
Clinicians are able to feel abnormalities and dysfunction in connective tissue utilizing hypersmooth instruments. Treats a wide range of ailments, including: chronic and acute conditions, edema, and motor control issues. Natural manual ability to receive immediate feedback for longer durations is enhanced by die casted stainless steel
Overview of Graston Technique® Therapy
Soft tissue injuries can be debilitating and frustrating. Graston Technique® (GT) therapy is successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic, acute or post- surgical. Muscle scraping can help you enjoy life again.
Our unique technique and instruments enable the treatment of scar tissue and fascial restrictions during rehabilitation that allows for faster rehabilitation and with greater success when the goal is restoring range of motion, eliminating pain, and restoring normal function.
Clinical Applications
Here is list of some of the most common conditions treated with Graston Technique® therapy.
- Ankle Pain (Achilles Tendinosis/itis)
- Wrist Pain (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
- Neck Pain (Cervical Sprain/Strain)
- Fibromyalgia
- Hamstring Injuries
- Hip Pain
- IT Band (Iliotibial Band)
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylosis/itis)
- Back Pain (Lumbar Sprain/Strain)
- Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylosis/itis)
- Knee Pain (Patellofemoral Disorders)
- Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
- Shoulder Pain (Rotator Cuff Tendinosis/itis)
- Scar Tissue
- Trigger Finger
- Women’s Health (Post-Mastectomy and Caesarean Scarring)
Graston Technique® therapy has resolved issues for patients that caused them to live with pain for years, sometimes decades. Say goodbye to costly anti-inflammatory and pain medications.
Add the Graston Technique to your treatment plan today!
Are you ready to get started on the path toward relief and recovery with the Graston Technique? Contact ImPackt Physical Therapy today at South Jordan, UT Center to request an appointment with one of our dedicated South Jordan, Utah physical therapists. We are committed to helping you heal and get back to your pain-free life!
