Graston Technique^®

The Graston Technique^® incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal function. Dr. Case does Graston Therapy on extremities only.

Why is scar tissue bad?

After any injury, scar tissue is formed on affected muscles. This scar tissue (adhesion) often remains for years after recovery. Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as they did before the injury. When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different forms: dense, regular elongated fibres running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense, irregular and loose with fibres running in multiple directions. In either instance, when tissue is damaged it will heal in a haphazard pattern–or scarring–that results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.

Benefits of the Graston Technique^®

The Graston Technique^® is a fast and effective method of breaking down scar tissue; it achieves this through several combined effects:

• Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibres
• Increases skin temperature
• Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern
• Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
• Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells
• Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity