Dr. Kavan Yu – Chiropractor, Victoria, BC

Often used in conjunction with A.R.T.®, Graston Technique® is an innovative, patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The Technique utilizes six specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.

The goal of Graston Technique is to separate and break down scar tissue and fascial adhesions as well as stretch connective tissue and muscle fibres. 

What is Fascia and scar tissue?

Fascia is a thin layer of connective tissue that weaves its way around every organ, muscle and tendon.  Fascia is likened to a flexible skeleton that connects the entire body, from the top of your head to the tips of your toes.  Without the fascial system, the human body would lack form.

Unfortunately, scar tissue can form and adhere fascia to muscle.  Scar tissue binds to muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and fascia to one another much like bristles of a paintbrush. This tissue becomes sticky and inflexible impairing function, range of motion and producing pain.

How does Graston® work?

Just as a stethoscope amplifies what the human ear can hear, the Graston instruments can amplify what the human hand can feel.  Certified Graston providers are trained in how to scan the tissue areas for scar tissue build-up, allowing previously undetected areas of fibrosis to be treated effectively.  Once the dysfunctional tissue has been identified, the practitioner can use the appropriate tool to focus on the area of adhesion and break down the scar tissue.  The small amount of inflammation created by the treatment process “re-starts” the healing process.  At this point, proper instruction on exercises and stretches are given to the patient to facilitate proper alignment of the healing tissue. 

Advantages and benefits of Graston Technique®

• Provides improved diagnostic treatment
• Detects major and minor fibrotic changes
• Increases patient satisfaction by achieving notably better outcomes
• Decreases overall time of treatment
• Fosters faster rehabilitation/recovery
• Reduces need for anti-inflammatory medication
• Resolves chronic conditions thought to be permanent

What can Graston Technique® treat?

• Neck pain
• Headaches
• Back pain
• Post surgical fibrosis (i.e. around scars)
• Chronic ligament injury
• Groin pain
• Tendonosis or Tendonopathy
• Golfers Elbow or Lateral Epicondylosis
• Tennis Elbow or Medial Epicondylosis
• TMJ (jaw) pain
• Achilles tendonitis
• Rotator cuff dysfunction
• Repetitive Strain Disorder (or RSD)
• Jumpers Knee or Patellar Tendinosis
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome
• Plantar Fascitis (foot & arch pain)
• Wrist pain
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Hand/finger/foot/toe pain
• Shin Spints
• Scar tissue leading to immobility from previous finger dislocations
• + Many other acute & chronic injuries