What is the Graston Technique for Chiropractors?

Looking for a new approach with your chiropractor? Read here to learn all about the Graston technique and if it's right for you

Did you know that muscle knots affect up to 85% of the population? You might be wondering, what is the Graston technique? 

The Graston technique is a type of chiropractic treatment that uses special tools to help smooth and loosen injured soft tissue. You can use it to treat a variety of conditions. It improves healing time from chronic conditions, and it's a solution for acute pain.

We’re going to take a look at what this technique is, how it works, what it helps, and who wouldn’t make a good candidate for it. If you're thinking about trying the Graston technique for yourself, here's what you need to know.

What Is the Graston Technique and What Are Its Benefits?

So, what is the Graston technique? It’s a type of manual therapy that uses special tools to help improve the mobility and function of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The benefits of the Graston technique include but aren’t limited to:

• Improved range of motion
• Reduced pain and swelling
• Faster healing times

Since multiple conditions like muscle knots and general stiffness are so common, many people will turn to using a manual type of soft-tissue instrument-assisted mobilization technique like this.

How Does the Graston Technique Work?

The Graston technique begins with the chiropractor using a special tool to identify areas of muscle tightness or inflammation. Once identified, the chiropractor will use the tool to perform a series of gentle strokes over the affected area(s). This helps break up scar tissue and improve blood flow to the area.

The Graston technique can alleviate muscle soreness and pain in target areas. The way it does this is by allowing the body to heal itself through the repetitive pressurized scraping movement.

It can also activate mechanoreceptors. These are just a type of nerve receptors in your body.

The treatment is usually repeated several times per session, and most people report feeling relief from their symptoms after just a few sessions.

What Conditions Can Be Treated With the Graston Technique?

The Graston technique is effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, and shoulder pain. In many cases, the Graston technique can provide relief where other treatments have failed. It has also been shown to help speed up the healing process after an injury.

Additionally, this technique can be used to treat other acute or chronic conditions. Here are a few:

• Lower back pain
• Shin splints
• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinosis
• Lower back muscle strains or sprains
• Cervical strains or sprains

If you're suffering from any type of musculoskeletal pain, be sure to ask your chiropractor if the Graston technique might help with your specific problems. You may be surprised at how much it can improve your quality of life.

How Often Should You Get Treatments?

The number of times that a patient should receive this treatment will depend on their situation, as well as the patient's goals. Your initial assessment with your chiropractor will also be taken into consideration to determine how many treatments you need. Generally speaking, this treatment is often given once or twice per week with at least a minimum of two days in between sessions.

Treatment will usually last 30 to 60 seconds for each area that is being treated. This can vary depending on the patient's needs, and what the chiropractor recommends.

What About Risks or Side Effects?

The Graston technique is a safe and effective treatment for most people. However, there are a few risks associated with the therapy, including bruising, swelling, and pain. These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but you should always consult your doctor before undergoing any type of manual therapy.

Overall, the Graston technique is an excellent way to improve mobility and reduce inflammation in muscles and joints. It’s also a beneficial option if you need a soft tissue massage to increase mobility and reduce soreness.

Remember to speak with your doctor before starting any new treatments or therapies. This is important, as not everyone makes a good candidate for this type of therapy.

How Much Does a Typical Session Cost?

Graston technique sessions typically cost between $50 and $75. However, the cost may vary depending on your location. Some insurance plans do cover Graston technique sessions, but it is best to check with your provider to see if you are eligible for coverage.

If you are not covered by insurance, there are often other payment options available. Your chiropractor’s office could give you more information for additional options.

Who Should Not Use the Graston Technique, and Why?

It's important to note that not all candidates that have soft tissue injury-related pain will be candidates for the Graston technique. The Graston technique should not be used on pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding. It is also not recommended for use on individuals with blood clots, open wounds, or infections.

Additionally, anyone with these conditions would not be a good candidate for the Graston technique:

• Anyone taking blood thinners
• Certain kidney disorders
• Certain cancers
• High blood pressure
• Complicated fractures that aren't healed

The technique uses a series of strokes over the skin with stainless steel instruments. This is why it isn’t recommended for women that are pregnant to receive this treatment, as they should avoid the therapy over certain areas of the body such as the pelvis or abdomen.

These instruments can cause discomfort and pain if used incorrectly or for prolonged periods.

Ready to Give It a Try?

So, what is the Graston technique? It’s a way to break up scar tissue or knots within your muscles. This treatment is often very popular among athletes, physically active individuals, and those who have suffered from prolonged pain.

Aside from reducing pain, the Graston technique also improves your body's ability to function. Fisher Chiropractic specializes in using the Graston technique for patients while focusing on patient comfort and promoting a better environment for patients to heal.

Overall, the technique works to speed up your body’s recovery process. Does it sound like something that you could benefit from? Contact us to learn more.