The Wellness Column
by Martin Sanford, DC

2/21/11


Graston Technique® 

     GT is a method of treatment used to treat soft tissue injuries that has been around for about 15 years.  The treatment is accomplished by use of metal tools to locate and treat restrictions in muscles, fascia (thin layer of connective tissue around muscles, and more), ligaments, or tendons.  Restrictions are a buildup of fibrotic scar tissue where there has been trauma; either a single event (whiplash) or cumulative micro trauma (think of chronic stress at upper back, neck, and shoulders from sitting at a computer over days/weeks/months/years.

     Why metal tools?  Graston tools are made of a stainless steel alloy that does not deform around soft tissues, and the metal type often allows for locating the restrictions because the change in tissue density will resonate or reverberate through the tools.  Because the tools do not deform around the abnormal tissue, it breaks it up and smooths it out.

     Why is scar tissue a problem?  Because it limits range of motion and scar tissue can be a pain generator, which makes for less than optimal function.

     Some conditions that have shown to improve with this treatment are Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, neck pain, low back pain, fibromyalgia, tennis elbow, golfers elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

     For more information or to schedule an appointment, call my office at 530-832-4442.