What is Graston®?

What is Graston®?

Here at PTSI, we offer a technique known as Graston®. Graston® is a highly trained skill that utilizes specific tools to mobilize soft tissue. This technique optimizes healing times, reduces tension and restores function.

Most people go to physical therapy and expect to learn exercises to help with their pain or injury, such as stretches to improve their range of motion. Sometimes these interventions alone do not completely resolve the problem, but there are special techniques that can help, including Graston®.

Here at PTSI, we offer a technique known as Graston®. Graston® is a highly trained skill that utilizes specific tools to mobilize soft tissue. This technique optimizes healing times, reduces tension and restores function.

Most people go to physical therapy and expect to learn exercises to help with their pain or injury, such as stretches to improve their range of motion. Sometimes these interventions alone do not completely resolve the problem, but there are special techniques that can help, including Graston®.

What are the Benefits of Graston®?

Not only has Graston® been found to provide patients with quicker and improved outcomes, but it also provides patients with the opportunity to be active in their treatment, because they are able to feel abnormal tissue texture. Combined with exercise, Graston® helps break up scar tissue or muscle “knots,” which increases range of motion of joints, helps facilitate and quicken the healing process, increases the strength of muscle fibers, and reduces pain.

At the first Graston® session, the therapist will evaluate where the patient is indicating pain, as well as the tissues above and below the affected area. The therapist will determine where the greatest restrictions are and how the patient tolerates Graston®, checking for any signs of bruising. The therapist will then prescribe exercises to be completed that will provide the maximum benefit of Graston® treatment. The length and number of sessions varies with each patient and each individual diagnosis, but Graston® has been shown to shorten the overall duration of therapy.

When Is Graston® a Treatment Option?

Graston® Technique is successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic or acute and post-surgical.

Is Graston® Right for You?

It is important to note that not all patients are candidates for Graston® intervention. However, if you feel this treatment option may be beneficial to you, contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment 208-478-1488.