Dynamic Sports Physical Therapy in New York City proudly features therapists trained in Graston Technique®, an innovative treatment form that uses instruments on afflicted areas of soft tissue to permit more movement and alleviate pain. Using specialized instruments, Graston Technique® is designed to decrease overall treatment time, lead to a faster recovery and reduce the need for anti-inflammatory drugs.
Originally developed by an Indiana athlete who was dissatisfied with his treatment options, Graston Technique® uses six specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and treat areas with soft tissue problems or chronic inflammation. Soft connective tissue, or fascia, is a white membrane located just beneath the skin that wraps and connects muscles, bones, nerves and blood vessels. When muscles and fascia aren’t stretched properly, they get stuck or tear, which can lead to soft tissue injuries that restrict movement and lead to pain and soreness.
Here are some highlights on the tools and treatments used in Graston Technique®:
- Instruments feature curvilinear edges and concave/convex shapes, which mold them to the contours of the body
- Each instrument combs over the body until it “catches onto” fibrotic (scar) tissue when it resonates like a tuning fork, which immediately identifies the area of restriction
- Once the tissue is identified, instruments are used to break up scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body
- Most treatment sessions include a warm up and both stretching and strengthening exercises in addition to Graston Technique®
- Treatments are recommended twice a week for about 4-5 weeks
Following this protocol, Graston Technique® is usually effective by the third or fourth session, and its been clinically proven to achieve quicker and better outcomes in treating both acute and chronic conditions. Graston Technique® has actually been found to lead to 75-90% positive outcomes for all conditions treated, some of which include: plantar fasciitis, golfer’s elbow, shin splints, tennis elbow, trigger finger, and pain in the back, neck, knee, shoulder ankle and wrist.
Trained therapists here at Dynamic Sports Physical Therapy in New York City are glad to answer any additional questions you might have about Graston Technique® and if it’s the right treatment for your condition. Feel free to contact us at 212-317-8303 for more information or to schedule an appointment, and we’ll help get you back to a life with less pain and more mobility once again.
