Instrument Assisted Mobilization

What is Graston Therapy?

Graston Technique^® (GT) Therapy is an evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that allows for precise detection and treatment of fascial restrictions as well as muscle and tendon dysfunction. Dr. Matt McManus uses specially designed stainless steel instruments with unique treatment edges and angles to deliver an effective means of manual therapy. Following the kinetic chain, Dr. Matt McManus can target and specifically treat affected tissues often resolving issues once thought to be permanent utilizing specifically designed instruments.  The use of GT instruments, when combined with appropriate therapeutic exercise, leads to the restoration of pain-free movement and function.

What does it do?

Empirical and Anecdotal Scientific Evidence exists for the following physiological effects of GT:

• Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links (Scar Tissue), and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers
• Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern (inhibition of abnormal tone/guarding leading to pain reduction via improved sensory input)
• Alters/inhibits spinal reflex activity (facilitated segment)
• Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area (angiogenesis vs. immediate local increases in blood flow)
• Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells
• Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity

What is scar tissue?

When tissue is damaged, it will often heal in a fibrotic, haphazard manner, creating scar tissue. Scar tissue limits range of motion due its negative impact on sensory motor firing rates and frequencies. Abnormal sensory inputs perpetuate a dysfunctional cycle of nervous system sensitization, pain and dysfunctional movement/motor output.

It may appear radio-dense under diagnostic ultrasound. The tissue may show thickening, irregular organization or less precise margins as compared to non-injured tissues, which results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain and functional limitations.

GT offers a positive method of manual therapy that interrupts and breaks this cycle of pain and dysfunctional movement.

What conditions does GT Treat?

• Achilles Tendinitis/osis (ankle pain)
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (wrist pain)
• Cervicothoracic Sprain/Strain (neck pain)
• Fibromyalgia
• Lateral Epicondylitis/osis (tennis elbow)
• Lumbosacral Sprain/Strain (back pain)
• Medial Epicondylitis/osis (golfer’s elbow)
• Myofascial Pain Syndromes
• Patellofemoral Disorders (knee pain)
• Plantar Fasciitis/osis (foot pain)
• Post surgeries such as joint replacements, RTC repairs (once post-surgical protocol allows for soft tissue mobilization/manual therapy)
• Rotator Cuff Tendinitis/osis (shoulder pain)
• Scar Tissue/post-surgical scars (once completely closed)
• Patients demonstrating central and/or peripheral sensitization (only used in light stroking/brushing mode to desensitize)
• Shin Splints
• Trigger Finger
• Women’s Health (post-mastectomy and Caesarean scarring)

When combining Chiropractic adjustments with Graston Technique^® can be used to treat any movement system dysfunction that has been determined to have a soft tissue component.

If you or a loved one would like more information about Graston Therapy or would like to book a consultation and exam to see if this unique treatment is right for you, please contact Dr. Matt McManus at Tower Chiropractic and Massage today! (403)263-7477

The entire team at Tower Chiropractic & Massage are looking forward to providing you with the highest caliber of care in Calgary’s Downtown Core.

Call us at (403) 263-7477 to request your appointment today!