Graston Technique (GT) is a form of IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation) that allows Dr. Hannegan to find and break up adhesions, fascial restrictions and scar tissue in muscle tissue. It can also be used for ligaments and tendons with the same effects. There is significant evidence supporting this treatment for the removal of these facial restrictions or adhesions as well as optimizing range of motion.

GT uses instruments made from stainless steel to glide along the skin with the help of a lubricant. The adhesions can be felt in the instrument isolating the areas of injury so treatment can be focused on the correct tissue. Both deep and superficial tissues can be comfortably treated because the intensity of treatment can be modified for each situation. As the instrument contacts these adhesions they are broken up reducing their concentration creating a healthier tissue.

Patients are often concerned when they see a stainless steel instrument getting ready, however treatment is usually comfortable. Anytime you are treating soft tissue, it can be uncomfortable. This is more common in severe injuries where there is already a lot of pain in an area. More often the only side effect is redness occurring over the site of treatment, however rarely bruising can occur.

Research shows overall treatment time can be reduced by using Graston Technique, which means faster recovery and sooner return to play. This means less time in a doctor’s office and more time doing what you want to do. Typically our patients are trying to avoid anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and Graston Technique reduces the need to use them as well.

Typical treatment plans consist of 2 treatments per week for 4-5 weeks. Each treatment varies in length depending on the area, but 10-15 minutes is the average treatment time. At Performance Chiropractic we combine this treatment with adjustments to the joints involved in the kinetic chain to maximize recovery speed.

Conditions the respond well to Graston achieving faster and better outcomes:

• Achilles Tendinosis/itis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Cervical Sprain/Strain (Neck Pain)
• Lateral Epicondylosis/itis (Tennis Elbow)
• Lumbar Sprain/Strain (Back Pain)
• Medial Epicondylosis/itis (Golfer’s Elbow)
• Patellofemoral Disorders (Knee Pain)
• Plantar Fasciitis (Foot Pain)
• Rotator Cuff Tendinosis/itis (Shoulder Pain)
• Scar Tissue
• Shin Splints
• Trigger Finger
• Trigger points (Muscle knots)
• Women’s Health (Post-Mastectomy and Caesarean Scarring)