This entry was posted on Monday, September 12th, 2011

Soft tissue injuries including tendinitis, bursitis, sprains, strains and other myofascial irritations or restrictions cause many of the reasons we experience pain and reduced physical capabilities. These conditions can be caused by various repetitive, postural and traumatic accident circumstances.

Examples of some common soft tissue conditions include rotator cuff injury’s, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, IT band syndrome and back or neck strains.

Injuries to soft tissues may require a prolonged amount of time to heal and at times can be difficult to resolve. Treatment for these conditions may include rest, exercise, stretching, ultrasound, supports, and ice.
A newer treatment that is frequently helpful for these conditions is Graston Technique. I originally observed this technique being utilized in the sporting world but have found it helpful in almost all cases of these conditions regardless of whether the injury incurred during a sporting event, at work or around the home.

Graston Technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to mobilize soft tissue and break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. In other words, by mobilizing the soft tissues with the aid of these stainless steel instruments improved motion and function can occur which helps promote healing.

Graston Technique is also often helpful in releasing soft tissue contractures associated with joint dysfunction such as it is found in osteoarthritis. It can also be helpful to reduce post surgical restrictions.

In my experience a combination of joint mobilization, stretching, exercising, ultrasound and Graston Technique produces superior results for many of these soft tissue conditions.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is for general discussion and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be used for the diagnoses or treatment of any disease or condition. It should not serve as a substitute for being evaluated by a certified health care provider. Any information or product discussed on this blog is not a substitute for the care of your physician or other health care provider.