Graston Technique
What is Graston?
Similar to Active release, but targeting different tissue, Graston is a technique utilized mainly to reduce scar tissue adhesions that are either generating pain, or contributing to abnormal biomechanics. Because its main role is to break down scar tissue, the body will generate inflammation and occasionally bruising from the technique itself, thus, only a small amount is done at a time, to ensure that treatment is helping to reduce scar tissue, not contributing to its formation.
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Changing the way soft tissue injuries are treated
Graston Technique® is an interdisciplinary treatment used by nearly 5000 clinicians—including athletic trainers, chiropractors, hand therapists, occupational and physical therapists.
GT is utilized at some 550 out-patient facilities and industrial on-sites, by more than 90 professional and amateur sports organizations, and is part of the curriculum at 21 respected colleges and universities.
For the clinician:
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Provides improved diagnostic treatment
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Detects major and minor fibrotic changes
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Reduces manual stress; provides hand and joint conservation
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Increases patient satisfaction by achieving notably better outcomes
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Expands business and revenue opportunities
For the patient:
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Decreases overall time of treatment
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Fosters faster rehabilitation/recovery
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Reduces need for anti-inflammatory medication
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Resolves chronic conditions thought to be permanent
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Continues to engage in everyday activities
How does Dr. Guthrie use Graston in her office?
Dr. Guthrie prefers this technique for chronic postural muscle tightness, un-resolving tendonitis issues, and for certain types of hip and shoulder injuries. ​​​
Is Graston right for me?
Most people respond very well to this treatment method, however not all people are ideal candidates for this treatment. During her initial assessment and treatment plan, Dr. Guthrie may recommend this as an acute phase treatment (short term, immediate pain reduction) , or as a chronic phase treatment (more longterm, aimed for resolving things such as postural issues)
What should I expect?
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​If Graston is in your treatment plan, expect the doctor to recommend multiple sessions of therapy, spaced widely apart to allow healing between treatments.
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it is a fast technique, typically no more than 5 minutes is sufficient for a treatment in an area.
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Most people notice immediate improvement in mobility and a reduction in their "nagging" pain.
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Some bruising and soreness should be noticeable for up to 36 hours following a treatment.
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