
Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
WHAT IS GRASTON TECHNIQUE®?
Graston Technique® (GT) is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. It enables clinicians to effectively detect and break down scar tissue, adhesions and fascial restrictions. This results in improving range of motion and restoring proper function. The techniques are evidence-based and require specific training in order to be certified. Graston Technique is clinically proven to achieve faster and better outcomes for acute and chronic conditions such as Muscle Strains, Sprains, and Tendonopathies. Use of the technique is common among amateur athletes as well as professional athletes.
Graston Technique® has become standard protocol in many universities as well as used by NBA, NFL, NHL and Major League Baseball athletic trainers.
Graston Technique® can be used to treat any movement system dysfunction that has been determined to have a soft tissue component. It can improve the athlete's range of motion, tissue flexibility, and muscle activation.
When GT is combined with appropriate therapeutic exercises and activities, pain free function is often restored.
Historically, the Graston Technique® has had positive outcomes in 87% or more of all conditions treated. It is equally effective in restoring function to acute and chronic overuse injuries, and pre/postsurgical patients.






GT instruments are used first to enhance the clinician's ability to detect soft tissue adhesions, scar tissue/fibrosis or restrictions in the affected areas as determined from a comprehensive examination of movement and function. Skilled clinicians use the stainless steel instruments to comb over and "catch" on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are then used to address and treat the abnormal tissue. The usual Graston protocol includes a soft tissue warm-up, then Graston treatment, followed by stretching and a high rep/low load rehab exercise for the treated area.
Graston Technique® has been clinically proven to effectively treat the following conditions but not limited to:
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Achilles Tendonitis/osis (Ankle/Heel Pain)
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Cervical sprain/strain (Neck Pain)
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Wrist Pain)
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Lateral Epicondlytis/osis (Tennis Elbow)
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Medial Epicondylitis/osis (Golfer's Elbow)
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Rotator Cuff Tendonitis/osis (Shoulder Pain)
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Lumbosacral Sprain/Strain (Back/Hip Pain)
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Planter Fasciitis/osis (Foot Pain)
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Patellofemoral Disorders (Knee Pain)
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Shin Splints
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IT Band Syndrome
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Myofascial Pain Syndromes
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Scar Tissue/post-surgical scars
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Headaches
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Trigger Points
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Muscle Strains/Tears
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Tendonopathies
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Ligament Sprains
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Post surgeries such as joint replacements/repairs
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Many chronic, unresolved soft tissue problems