Graston Technique

What Is the Graston Technique?

The Graston Technique is a type of manual therapy where specially designed metal tools are used to gently scrape or glide over your skin to treat muscle and soft tissue issues.

Think of it like a deep-tissue massage, but done with precision tools that help break up tension and scar tissue.

Why Do Chiropractors Use It?

Chiropractors use the Graston Technique to:

Break down scar tissue or adhesions
Improve blood flow
Reduce pain and stiffness
Speed up recovery
Restore normal movement

It’s especially helpful when muscles, tendons, or ligaments have gotten tight, inflamed, or restricted—often after injury, surgery, or overuse.

How Does It Work?

Assessment
- The chiropractor feels around and uses the tools to find areas that feel tight, gritty, or restricted.
Treatment
- They use the stainless steel tools to gently scrape or glide over the skin in specific patterns.
- This helps identify and break up "stuck" tissue underneath the skin—like scar tissue or knots.
Muscle Response
- Your body responds by increasing blood flow and healing activity in the treated area.
- Over time, this can improve range of motion, flexibility, and pain levels.

Common Issues Treated with Graston

Neck or back pain
Plantar fasciitis
Tennis or golfer’s elbow
Shoulder injuries (like rotator cuff problems)
Carpal tunnel
IT band syndrome
Post-surgical scar tissue
Chronic muscle tightness

Does It Hurt?

It might feel uncomfortable or tender—like a deep massage, especially in tight or inflamed areas—but it shouldn't be sharply painful. Some people may get a little redness or light bruising afterward, which is normal and usually goes away quickly.

Why It Works So Well with Chiropractic

Chiropractic adjustments focus on joints and alignment, while Graston helps with muscles and fascia (the tissue around muscles). Together, they make a powerful combo for:

Longer-lasting relief
Better mobility
Faster recovery from injuries