Graston Technique or Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
The Graston Technique® (GT), also known as Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM), is a therapeutic technique that utilizes instruments to enhance the clinician's ability to detect fascial adhesions (scar tissue) and restrictions in muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments. It has been clinically proven to help achieve quicker and better outcomes in treating both acute and chronic conditions, including:
Cervical Sprain/Strain (Neck Pain) Lumbar Sprain/Strain (Back Pain)
Plantar Fasciitis (Foot/Heel Pain) Carpal Tunel Syndrome (Wrist Pain and/or Numbness)
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)
Rotator Cuff Tendinosis (Shoulder Pain) Patellofemoral Disorders (Knee Pain)
Achilles Tendinosis (Ankle Pain) Fibromyalgia
Scar Tissue Trigger Finger
Shin Spints Running and Sports Related Injuries
When a person is injured, the body forms fibrous scar tissue to protect the affected area. Scar tissue adhesions can develop from microtrauma, such as repetitive motion injuries from work, swimming, or sports like tennis and golf, or from macrotrauma, like torn muscles, falls, auto accidents, or contact sports such as football and lacrosse. This scar tissue limits the range of motion and often causes pain, preventing the individual from functioning as they did before the injury.
Under a microscope, tendons and ligaments have dense, elongated fibers that run in the same direction. When the soft tissue is damaged, it may heal irregularly, leading to scarring, restricted motion, and pain. This explains why many injuries feel “different” even after weeks or months of healing.
The Graston Technique is a soft-tissue therapy that blends the ancient Chinese technique of Gua Sha, cross-friction massage, and modern technology into a treatment gaining worldwide recognition. Stainless steel instruments have been used by over 50 major professional and amateur sports organizations, helping athletes recover quickly and return to peak performance by reducing healing times and preventing injuries.
These instruments enhance the clinician’s ability to detect scar tissue, adhesions, and soft tissue restrictions. Skilled chiropractors, like Dr. Phil Afghani, Dr. Hayden Sadowsky, and Dr. Conner Weiss at Atlantic Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Port Orange, FL, use these tools to identify and break down fibrotic tissue, which can then be absorbed by the body. Patients typically receive 2-3 treatments per week for 4-5 weeks, with most showing improvement by the 3rd or 4th session.
A recent study showed that the Graston Technique resolved 87% of soft tissue conditions treated. It’s effective in relieving pain and restoring function for both acute and chronic injuries, as well as assisting in post-surgical recovery. The technique has delivered exceptional results for conditions ranging from tennis elbow and sprains to plantar fasciitis and neck or back pain. For more information, contact Dr. Phil Afghani at Atlantic Chiropractic and Wellness Center at (386) 492-4881.
Here is a video demonstrating how IASTM works!