Muscle injuries are common, and we have many ways to treat them. However, experts are always looking for better approaches to overcome muscle injuries. The Graston technique (GT) is one of the novel tools practitioners use for a more effective treatment.
This technique was named after an amateur athlete David Graston, who popularized massage methods that helped him overcome his knee injury in the 90s. However, the technique is anything but new, and it has been used in China for centuries to stimulate blood flow and promote healing.
So, how does the GT work, and is it effective?
How Does GT Work?
Graston technique uses specifically designed stainless steel instruments to scrape your back, neck, and other painful areas of your body. This allows them to detect scar tissue, restrictions, muscle adhesion and break them down effectively.
In addition to using the instruments, the practitioner combines it with massage to relax tightened muscles and stretch the affected area. That should help improve blood flow and increase the range of motion.
The patients typically warm up with low-impact exercises or stretches, and then the practitioner gently pushes the tool over the problematic area. GT could cause discomfort or bruises, but it should not cause intense pain.
What Conditions Does the Graston Technique Treat?
GT can be used as a part of the treatment for many conditions, including:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Golfer’s elbow
- Knee pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Scar tissue
- Rotator cuff tendonitis
- Tennis elbow
The practitioner can choose from six different tools with a concave or convex shape. They focus on a particular area for 30 to 60 seconds, using very calculated massage techniques.
After the GT session, a patient typically performs light stretches and low-impact exercises to strengthen the injured area. In addition, your practitioner may suggest ice therapy or cryotherapy to stimulate muscle regeneration.
Is the Graston Technique Safe?
You may feel slight discomfort during your session, but the GT is generally considered safe when performed by a trained practitioner in a controlled environment. You shouldn’t try to do GT by yourself at home, as it could cause more harm than good.
Soreness or light bruising are generally treated with ice application for 15 to 20 minutes after the treatment. That eliminates discomfort and additionally stimulates muscle repair.
The research is still emerging, but the current findings suggest that the GT could help patients improve the range of motion in the affected area.
How Quickly Do You See Results With the Graston Technique?
Some people claim small improvements even after the initial treatment with the GT. However, most practitioners state that you need at least three to four sessions before experiencing any significant benefits.
Graston Technique Practitioners
If you are looking for a center where you can receive GT, Spring Chiropractic & Rehab is the perfect place. There, you can consult with experienced experts like Dr. Scott Bolz, Dr. Rudy Rivas, and Dr. Emily Ranstadler. Along with a highly professional team of medical workers, they offer GT and other chiropractic services to eliminate pain. Click here to book an appointment.
What Conditions Are Treated With ART Therapy?
Art therapy aims to break up adhesions and scar tissue and restore a full range of motion. Doing that eliminates pain, stiffness, and other symptoms that prevent your performance from advancing.
You can use ART for conditions like:
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Sciatica
- Sports injuries
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Stiff neck
- Car accident injuries
- Frozen shoulder
- Sprained ankles
- Hamstring strains
- Tennis elbow
- Rotator cuff tendinitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Headaches
How Long Until I See the Results?
Many people experience discomfort relief even after the first session of ART. However, the full benefits take a little more time to kick in, and you can expect at least 3-6 visits before seeing good results. That’s usually 2-4 weeks, so don’t expect any overnight miracles.
The great thing about this treatment approach is that your practitioner always follows your progress and can adjust their treatment based on what they observe during the examination phase of these appointments.
Where Can I Get ART Treatment?
Dr. Scott Bolz from the Spring Chiropractic & Rehab center is a certified ART practitioner. He focuses on protocols for upper extremities, lower extremities, and the spine. With his extensive training and experience in ART protocols, he is the best choice in the Spring-Woodland area of Texas. Feel free to book an appointment and discover how this soft-tissue treatment can help you get rid of the pain.