Graston Technique: FAQ - From Your Brookline Chiropractor

Chiropractors and massage therapists normally use their fingers to increase blood flow and break up restrictions to injured soft tissues. However, fingers alone are often inadequate at detecting and loosening restrictions at a deeper level.

That’s why our chiropractor in Brookline uses the Graston Technique to perform instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM). Learn more about this technique to see why it’s a fundamental treatment option here at Brookline Family Chiropractic Center.

What is the History of the Graston Technique?

The early Chinese may have been the first to use “instruments” to heal soft body tissues, but this concept didn’t make a significant appearance in the United States until the 1980s. It was at this time that athlete David Graston developed a series of stainless steel instruments to aid in his rehabilitation after suffering a devastating water skiing injury.

What Does the Graston Technique Accomplish?

This treatment method enables chiropractors to break down scar tissue and myofascial restrictions. The specially designed stainless steel instruments are particularly effective at detecting and treating areas with soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation. When combined with other therapeutic exercises and activities recommended by our Brookline chiropractor, 75 to 90 percent of patients enjoy restored movement and pain-free function.

Is the Graston Technique Painful?

Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization needn’t be painful to be effective. You can expect a comfortable therapy session with the Graston Technique. Occasionally, minor discomfort during treatment and bruising the following day may occur. However, our chiropractor in Brookline is trained to watch for these symptoms and reduce treatment intensity accordingly.

What Conditions Does the Graston Technique Treat?

Any type of soft tissue fibrosis or myofascial restrictions can be treated with the Graston Technique. Examples include:

• Tendinitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Sprains and strains
• Fibromyalgia
• Plantar fasciitis
• Shin splints
• Trigger finger
• Scar tissue from surgery
• Lingering pain after joint replacement surgery

What Does Treatment Consist Of?

When you visit Brookline Family Chiropractic Center for treatment using the Graston Technique, expect to go through a brief warm-up exercise first. Following treatment, you’ll need to perform stretching and strengthening exercises and apply ice to address inflammation.

Contact Our Brookline Chiropractor to Learn More

Contact us today to sign up for a free 10-minute consultation with our Brookline chiropractor. We’ll help you determine if the Graston Technique is the right treatment for your condition.