What is the Graston Technique®?
Our Chiropractor, Dr. Katherine Tibor, is a Graston Technique practictioner, offering this patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization to detect and treat scar tissue and their resulting restrictions that can affect your normal functioning. Graston can be used to treat conditions of both a deep or superficial nature.
Why is scar tissue a problem?
Your skin is not the only type of tissue that can develop scars. Injury to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments will cause your body to deposit dense, fibrous material in an irregular fashion to initiate tissue healing. This is how a scar is formed. It is not uncommon to see or feel these scars as bumps or "knots" within the tissue.
Unfortunately because scar tissue is thick and inelastic, it restricts the normal glide and movement between tissue. This can result in weakened tissue and joints, as well be the cause of pain.
What are the benefits of Graston Technique?
As a soft tissue technique, Graston has the ability to restore elasticity in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments by breaking down the scar tissue. It also has the ability to release the underlying the nerves that are being compromised. As a result, you will notice:
- A decrease in pain, numbness, and/tingling
- An increase in motion through the muscles and joints
- A decrease in inflammation
- A decrease in scarring
And when coupled with a rehabilitative exercise program, Graston can:
- Elongate tight and contracted tissues
- Strengthen muscles
- Improve nerve function
How does Graston work?
The Graston instruments are used to enhance the clinician's ability to detect adhesions, scar tissue, or restrictions in the affected areas. Skilled clinicians use the stainless steel instruments to comb over and "catch" on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body. Unlike other soft tissue techniques, Graston Technique is designed to treat the area in multiple directions to accommodate for the irregular formation of the scar tissue.
To optimize the effects of the Graston Technique, rehabilitative exercises are prescribed to further the function of the muscles and joints.
What conditions are commonly treated with Graston?
Graston Technique can be used on a number of different conditions including:Tendonitis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Neck and Back Pain
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Trigger Finger
- IT Band Syndrome
- Sprains and Strains
- Post Surgical Scar Tissue
- Swelling
- Fibromyalgia
- Plantar Fasciitis
...And the list goes on.
If you have not experienced the Graston Technique and you still have lingering discomfort or stiffness, ask Dr. Katherine whether you may be helped by this effective new treatment.
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