The Graston Technique for scar tissue is a type of manual therapy. This therapy utilizes instruments combined with massage to gently scrape the skin. The main goal of the therapy is to allow chiropractors to identify restriction in areas of the body and break up any scar tissue that is present. This technique is used not only by chiropractors, but is also used by:
- Physical therapists
- Osteopathic doctors
- Occupational therapists
- Athletic trainers
The Goals of the Graston Technique
A practitioner’s primary goal for using this therapy is to reduce a patient’s pain while also improving a patient’s function. Furthermore, these goals can be accomplished through a combination of using the Graston Technique for scar tissue to break down the tissue that usually results from trauma or injury to the tissue (pulled tendon, ligament or strained muscle).
Consequently, any restrictions can be reduced by stretching the connective tissue. These therapies help to promote a healthier healing environment for the soft tissue that is injured.
There is also some evidence that shows patients also receive a neurological advantage when they are treated with the Graston Technique. Nerve fibers become active and alert during manual or instrument soft tissue therapies. As a result, the position sense organs in the human body seem to respond very well to this type of treatment.
The Advantages of the Graston Technique for Scar Tissue
There are several types of soft tissue that help to make up the back. These soft tissue types are:
- Ligaments
- Tendons
- Fascia
- Muscles
When these soft tissues become injured, the injury can greatly affect the amount of pain and discomfort a person feels. Although muscle strains in the back do not sound like serious injuries, back muscle strains can cause extreme pain and can make it difficult for the person to move.
Fortunately, there are also several advantages to using the Graston Technique on a person that has one or more soft tissue injuries. Some of the advantages are:
- A decrease in treatment time
- Elimination of chronic health conditions
- Faster recovery
- Reducing or eliminating the need for prescription or over the counter medications
Chiropractors may use The Graston Technique alone, or chiropractors can use it in combination with other therapies and treatments. Find a reputable chiropractor who can help you alleviate your neck pain and/or back pain.
Are you suffering with soft tissue injuries? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Renee White of Champion Chiropractic today.