Graston Technique
Graston Technique is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that uses specially designed stainless-steel instruments to detect and treat areas of muscle tightness, scar tissue, and fascial restriction. By gliding these instruments across the skin, your physical therapist can pinpoint restricted areas that may be harder to feel with hands alone, then apply targeted pressure to break up adhesions and stimulate the body’s natural healing response.
How it works
The stainless-steel instruments are designed to conform to different areas of the body, allowing your therapist to apply precise pressure while gliding over muscles, tendons, and fascia. This process helps identify restrictions in the tissue and creates a controlled micro-trauma that triggers the body to increase blood flow and initiate a localized healing response — helping to break down scar tissue and improve the quality of the underlying tissue.
What it can help with:
- Chronic pain and stiffness
- Scar tissue and fascial restrictions
- Tendinitis and tendinopathies (e.g., tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis)
- Muscle tightness and limited range of motion
- Post-surgical scarring
- Sports injuries and overuse conditions
What to expect
During treatment, your therapist will glide the instruments over the affected area using varying degrees of pressure. You may feel some discomfort or a “scraping” sensation, especially over areas of significant restriction, but it should not be sharp or unbearable. It’s common to develop mild bruising, redness, or tenderness in the treated area afterward — this typically resolves within a few days.
Graston Technique is often combined with therapeutic exercise, stretching, and other manual therapy techniques as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to restore mobility and reduce pain.
Graston Technique FAQ’s
Does Graston hurt?
You may feel pressure, mild discomfort, or a scraping sensation as the instruments pass over restricted tissue, especially in more sensitive or tight areas. It shouldn’t be sharply painful, and your therapist will adjust pressure based on your feedback.
Will I bruise from this treatment?
Some redness, tenderness, or mild bruising in the treated area is common and considered a normal response to treatment. This typically fades within a few days to about a week.
How is Graston different from a regular massage?
Graston uses specialized stainless-steel instruments rather than hands, allowing your therapist to more precisely detect and treat areas of restriction. The instruments also allow for a different kind of micro-trauma to the tissue that can stimulate healing more effectively than manual pressure alone in certain conditions.
Is Graston the same as scraping or "Gua Sha"?
While the instruments and general technique share similarities with Gua Sha (a traditional Chinese medicine practice), Graston Technique is a Western, evidence-based clinical approach used by trained physical therapists as part of a specific treatment protocol.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your condition and how your tissue responds. Many treatment plans involve multiple sessions over several weeks to achieve lasting results, often combined with exercises to reinforce the changes.
Is Graston safe?
Yes, when performed by a trained physical therapist. Your therapist will evaluate your condition and history to determine if Graston is appropriate for you.
Who shouldn't get Graston Technique?
It may not be appropriate for people with open wounds, active infections, certain skin conditions, uncontrolled blood clotting disorders, or who are pregnant (in certain areas). Always disclose your full medical history to your therapist beforehand.
Can Graston be combined with other treatments?
Yes — Graston is frequently used alongside stretching, strengthening exercises, and other manual therapy techniques like myofascial release or joint mobilizations for a well-rounded treatment plan.
What should I do after treatment?
Staying hydrated and avoiding intense activity on the treated area for the rest of the day can help minimize soreness. Applying ice if needed and gently moving the area (as instructed) can also support recovery.
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