Want to see how the Graston Technique works in real time? Watch the short video below to see it in action during an actual treatment session.
The Graston Technique® is a modern, evidence-based form of soft tissue therapy that uses patented stainless-steel instruments to assist practitioners in detecting and treating areas of muscle tension, scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions. Unlike traditional massage or manual therapy alone, Graston tools allow the therapist to feel and target restrictions beneath the skin more precisely.
When soft tissue becomes injured whether through repetitive stress, direct trauma, surgery, or poor posture the body responds by laying down scar tissue. While scar tissue is part of the natural healing process, excessive buildup can restrict normal movement, cause pain, and lead to long-term dysfunction if not addressed. The Graston Technique is designed to gently break up this abnormal tissue, promote better alignment of collagen fibers during healing, and stimulate the local inflammatory response in a controlled way to speed up recovery.
During a Graston session, the practitioner applies a specialized tool along the skin in a specific pattern. The tools vary in shape and size to adapt to different areas of the body, such as the spine, shoulders, elbows, knees, or ankles. You may feel a slight "gritty" sensation where there are adhesions. Treatment usually involves slow, repetitive strokes combined with clinical judgment to determine the right amount of pressure.
After treatment, many patients experience immediate changes in mobility and a gradual decrease in pain. It is often combined with therapeutic exercises, stretching, or joint mobilizations to enhance results and prevent re-injury.
Mild bruising, redness, or soreness after a session is common and considered a normal part of the healing response as the body works to remodel the tissue.
In summary, Graston Technique is not just about relieving pain temporarily — it aims to restore proper tissue function, improve range of motion, and prevent long-term movement problems.
Research has shown that the Graston Technique is effective in improving pain, mobility, and recovery:
Most people find it a bit uncomfortable, but not unbearable. Mild soreness or small bruises afterward are normal and usually resolve within a few days.
Many people notice improvement within 4–6 treatments, but the number of sessions varies depending on your condition.
Yes, Graston Technique is often used to address chronic soft tissue issues and long-standing scar tissue that may be limiting range of motion or causing discomfort.
It may not be recommended for individuals with certain conditions such as active infections, cancer, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. A full assessment will be done before treatment starts.
At our clinic, Graston Technique is performed by qualified chiropractors who have received specific training and certification in this method. In some cases, specially trained massage therapists may also use Graston instruments under clinical guidance, depending on the condition being treated.
Absolutely. It is often combined with exercises, stretching, dry needling, chiropractic adjustments, or other soft tissue therapies to improve outcomes.
While massage uses hands to apply pressure, Graston tools allow practitioners to detect and target areas of restriction more precisely. It’s particularly useful for breaking down adhesions that may not be reached by hands alone.
