The
Graston Technique: Therapy with the use of tools
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An effective therapy option offered
by Dr. Rav Nagra:
The
Graston Technique incorporates a patented form of
instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables Dr. Nagra
to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that
affect normal function.
Most
athletes and long distance runners eventually suffer from injuries,
aches and pains. Injuries to soft tissues like muscles, ligaments
and tendons, play a significant role in pain and dysfunction if left
untreated. While it may not sound like a serious injury, a simple
muscle strain or torn ligament can cause excruciating pain and
difficulty with movement.
When
an injury within the soft tissue occurs, the tissue repairs itself in
a haphazard pattern, forming scar tissue. While the scar tissue
itself is not painful, it does tend to limit range of motion, and the
ongoing stiffness may contribute to back pain or neck pain on an
ongoing basis.
Dr.
Nagra uses the stainless steel instruments to comb over and
"catch" on fibrotic tissue, which immediately
identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has
been identified, the instruments are used to break
up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body.
The Graston Technique is used to treat injuries in a variety of
ways:
- Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers
- Increases skin temperature
- Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern (relaxes tight muscles)
- Alters spinal reflex activity (facilitated segment)
- Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
- Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells (decreases healing time)
- Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity
