Joint Mobility Optimization
Soft Tissue Rehabilitation and Joint Mobility Optimization
The Graston Technique is an innovative, patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The Technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.
Indications for Treatment
A history of trauma or repetitive stress injuries to muscles, tendons, joint capsules, and connective tissues are all indication that you may benefit from treatment. Typically individuals will have pain in the affected tissues but there may be low-grade adhesions that do not cause pain that may still affect joint mobility and stability. Areas of treatment will include neck, back, and upper and lower extremities and face (temporomandibular joint muscles).
The Graston Treatment
Treatment usually consists of four to six sessions, spaced at least two days apart to allow recovery from treatment. During treatment an emollient cream is applied to the various body parts being treated to protect the skin. Frequently bruising will be seen, especially on the first day of treatment. Also soreness during and post treatment is common. Patients are encouraged to ice and perform exercises targeting the injured muscles, tendons, and/or connective tissues, post treatment. This is an integral part of the rehabilitation of soft tissue injuries. Often there is significant improvement of tissue mobility and reduction of pain from injured tissues even after just one treatment.
How It Works
When soft tissues are injured, various fibers are torn and scar tissue fills in the gap. Scar tissue is contractile and will bring together the torn ends of muscles, tendons, connective tissue, etc. As tissues go through the three stages of healing - the inflammatory phase, proliferative phase, and remodeling phase - Graston treatment can be helpful. Once the damaged tissues are healed, the remaining scar tissue needs to be removed. This is the main function of Graston Technique. Specially designed metal tools help sever adhesions and/or scar tissue. This is especially important in the final stage of healing: the remodeling phase. Once scar tissue is removed, mobility to joints is restored and frequently the pain from the scar tissue will be relieved immediately, although the discomfort from treatment may last 24 to 48 hours.
Call Dr. Erwin Linzer at 707-586-5555 or contact us to learn how the Graston Technique can help you.
