There are a lot of treatment options available in the market nowadays. Some offer an instant relief from pain while other promise long-term benefits. Therapists all over the world are on a quest to find the best remedy for pain relief, and one approach that they are looking into is the Graston Technique, also known as Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM). This technique is a form of manual therapy that uses stainless steel instruments in combination with a specialized form of massage.
How is it different from other therapies?
The Graston Technique is designed to help practitioners identify areas of restriction and subsequently attempt to break up scar tissue by scraping the skin gently using specialized instruments. Compared to other approaches, the Graston Technique scans and detects injured tissues. The therapy introduces small amounts of trauma in order to break down the scarred tissue and promote rearrangement of connective tissue. Studies also show that with the use of this therapy, patients felt less pain and were able to move more.
What are the benefits of the Graston Technique?
The Graston Technique causes temporary inflammation in the injured tissue. This inflammation benefits the injury by increasing the rate and amount of blood flow, initiating the healing process of the affected tissues. With this technique, patients suffering from pain may experience a decrease in treatment time, faster rehabilitation, reduced need for anti-inflammatory medication and in some instances, resolved chronic conditions.
Who can perform the Graston Technique?
Furthermore, this technique can only be performed by specially trained professionals, such as chiropractors, osteopathic physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, massage therapists and athletic trainers. There is a growing demand of clients seeking Graston Therapy, and it is very important to go to a high caliber therapist.
Who can benefit from Graston Therapy?
The target population of this therapy are those who are suffering from acute and chronic injuries. Once they start the therapy, they can expect to see significant results within six to12 treatments. Sports-oriented individuals can also benefit from this therapy because it can improve their range of motion and decrease delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
In a nutshell, anyone can try the Graston Technique, and it is especially effective for those suffering from sports injuries and vehicle accidents. Anyone suffering from pain may consult their therapist in order to see if the Graston Technique is right for them.
Book an appointment to try the Graston Technique or to discuss whether it’s right for you.