Graston Technique® is an instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization method.
It's is used by chiropractors and sports injury specialists to break up scar tissue and mobilize soft tissue restrictions. Soft tissue or fascia consists of the layers of connective tissue that surrounds and separates the various muscles and organs of the body. You can think of fascia as the white fuzz inside an orange that serves to separate the peel from the fruit and the fruit slices from each other.
The fascia in our bodies separates our skin from the muscles and our muscles and organs from each other. It also surrounds the nerves and blood vessels that run through our muscles and organs.
Fascial restrictions or adhesions can occur between the layers of fascia or between the fascia and the structures it surrounds.
This can occur from overuse or repetitive activities, sitting in prolonged postures, a history of prior injury, or a previous surgery. Graston Technique® involves the use of six stainless steel instruments that are designed and contoured for different areas of the body. The practitioner will glide the instruments over your skin in order to break up the scar tissue, increase range of motion, improve function, and reduce your symptoms. Frequently once the soft tissue has been released, a gentler and less forceful manipulation can be provided with lasting results.