Graston Technique®

Learn About the Graston Technique®

Originally developed by athletes, the Graston Technique® is an innovative, patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and restrictions in the fascia (the tissue that covers and connects all your muscles).

Mid City Chiropractic is Omaha’s first and most experienced Graston Technique® provider!

The six specially designed stainless-steel instruments are utilized to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.

Effective Treatment Options

The Graston Technique® instruments, while enhancing the clinician’s ability to detect fascial adhesions and restrictions, have been clinically proven to achieve quicker and better outcomes in treating both acute and chronic conditions.

• Achilles tendinitis (ankle pain)
  
• Carpal tunnel syndrome (wrist pain)
  
• Cervical sprain / strain (neck pain)
  
• Fibromyalgia
  
• Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
  
• Lumbar sprain / strain (back pain)
  
• Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)
  
• Patellofemoral disorders (knee pain)
  
• Plantar fasciitis (foot pain)
  
• Rotator cuff tendinitis (shoulder pain)
  
• Scar tissue
  
• Shin splints
  
• Trigger finger

Healing Scar Tissue

Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances, results in pain and prevents our body from functioning the way it did before the injury, surgery, etc. When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue has a couple of different looks: dense, regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense, irregular and loose with fibers running in multiple directions. When a tissue is damaged, it heals in a haphazard pattern - or in the form of scar tissue - that results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.

The GT® instruments are used to comb over the muscles and tissues of the body, causing the stainless steel to vibrate or “catch” in areas of fibrotic tissue. This immediately identifies the areas of restriction and allows for direct patient feedback. 

Once the diseased tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it will be absorbed by the body and new, healthy tissue can take its place. 

It is common to experience minor discomfort during the procedure and sometimes minor bruising / redness afterwards. This is a normal response and part of the healing process, but overall the technique is not considered painful. It is often described as similar to a deep tissue massage but in a manner very specific to the involved tissue and area. Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4 to 5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the first or second treatment! 

Graston Technique® has become recognized as a standard protocol in several university and hospital settings, including the prestigious Texas Back Institute. GT® is also being used in industrial settings and by over 430 professional and collegiate sports teams, including NFL, NBA, NHL, Major League Baseball teams, as well as Omaha’s own UNO Mavericks! 

Historically, the Graston Technique® has resolved 87% or more of all conditions treated. It is equally effective in restoring function to acute and chronic injuries, and pre and post-surgical patients.

Information for Health Care Professionals