Graston Technique

Graston Technique is an advanced method of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that is combined with rehabilitative exercises to improve musculoskeletal function. The theory behind this was initially developed by acupuncturists using a technique called gua-sha. The tools are used to scan areas of dysfunction and looking for a reaction from the skin. These areas are then treated with similar techniques. It involves the gentle sliding of the tools over the skin. The biggest goal of IASTM is to remove scar tissues and promote a return to normal function following soft tissue regeneration (healing).

iastm-chirosportne.jpg

Indications

  • Limited motion 
  • pain during motion 
  • motor control issues
  • Muscle recruitment issues

Other INformation

  • IASTM promotes tissue remodeling, fibroblast recruitment and activation.

  • It reintroduces the tissues to the inflammatory response to jump start tissue healing.

  • Tendon injuries account for 30-50% of injuries in sports

  • Accounts for 30% of all running-related injuries

  • Elbow tendinopathy (golfers elbow/tennis elbow among others) can be as high as 40% in tennis players

  • Patellar tendinopathy (causing knee pain) can be as high as 32% in basketball players

  • Patellar tendinopathy (causing knee pain) can be as high as 45% in volleyball player

  • Leads to lost time and performance declines in sports

  •  Long term damage to tendons can affect daily function

Studies have also showed clinical benefits of IASTM showing improvements in range of motion, strength and pain perception following treatment.

  • Melham et al. found that IASTM significantly improved range of motion in a college football player following 7 weeks of IASTM and corrective exercise.[
  • Melham et al. found that scar tissue surrounding the lateral malleolus (bone on outside of ankle) was reduced and remodeled structurally following IASTM application.
  • Wilson et al found improvement in pain reduction and impairment scale at 6 & 12 weeks following IASTM application for patellar tendonitis.

CONDITIONS TREATED WITH IASTM

  • Myofascial Pain and Restrictions 
  • Musculoskeletal Imbalances 
  • Chronic Joint Swelling Associated with Sprains/Strains 
  • Ligament Sprains 
  • Muscle Strains 
  • Non-Acute Bursitis 
  • Back Pain 
  • Trigger Finger 
  • Shin Splints 
  • Chronic Ankle Sprains 
  • Acute Ankle Sprains (Advanced Technique) 
  • Scars (Surgical, Traumatic)
  • Medial Epicondylitis, Lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow and golfers elbow)
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 
  • Neck Pain 
  • Plantar Fascitis 
  • Rotator Cuff Tendinitis 
  • Patellar Tendinitis 
  • Tibialis Posterior Tendinitis 
  • Heel Pain /Achilles Tendinitis 
  • DeQuervain's Syndrome 
  • Post-Surgical and Traumatic Scars 
  • Hip Pain (Replacements) 
  • IT Band Syndrome