GRASTON Technique Edmonton
GRASTON Edmonton
Graston Technique is a myofascial based therapy (can also be commonly called “gua sha”, the terms are often used interchangeably, but there are differences) utilizing steel instruments to lift superficial adhesions from connective tissue.
Graston Therapy
Graston has been thought to be an interchangeable term between the Graston Technique, IASTM (instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization), and Gua Sha therapy, so there can be a little confusion as to what the difference is between the Graston Technique and other techniques.
The main idea behind both of these techniques, the Graston Technique and Gua Sha, is to heal the body by intentionally producing micro-traumas in specific regions to bring heat to the area. Although both tools address the body in a similar way, they each have a different approach in the way the tools are made and used. Gua Sha does not typically include client initiated movement. The client lays still and receives the treatment passively, whereas the Graston Technique includes client initiated movement that is instructed by the practitioner, and it is for this reason that the Graston Technique is patented. Research shows that with client initiated (active) movement, it lengthens the results of the treatment and aids in chronic pain or post surgery rehabilitation by strengthening the tendons and musculoskeletal junctions through active eccentric and concentric muscle contractions.
GRASTON THERAPY TOOLS
So what is the difference between Graston Technique, or Graston Therapy, and Gua Sha? It’s twofold: The stainless steel Graston instruments that are used carry a patented design that definitely aids in their usefulness and efficiency when sweeping along the client's tissue. The expertly crafted and high quality instruments that are designed specifically to contour to different and curves of the body structure, as well as the client-initiated activation that allows for a more effective increase in range of motion and blood flow. Research shows that the client initiated motion greatly assists in solidifying a new pattern of movement in the body that can last long after the treatment ends! We have more information about the differences between these techniques on our blog page! Read our blog for more clarity on the differences, or ask your practitioner.
It's important to understand the options available to you and make an informed decision about which technique is best for you and your goals. Don't be afraid to ask questions and gather as much information as you need. Questions about whether Graston Technique is a good addition to your massage therapy treatment? Email the owner, Miranda at info@striveholistic.com and ask any questions you’d like!
Some clients wonder if the Graston technique is painful, and it shouldn't be, although the level of intensity can vary depending on the preferred technique of the practitioner the desired sensation of the client. We invite you to communicate any concerns you have about the use of the instruments before and throughout your treatment!
Sports Massage
In fact, at the Strive Holistic Massage Clinic, we have a specialized 20 minute scar tissue treatment that we offer for post surgery clients who wish to reduce the appearance of, and improve range of motion and mobility of the joint near where scar tissue may be presenting. Scars that are one year or less post surgery are the most effective when selecting this treatment type. For more information about our specialized 20 minute specialized Graston Technique treatment, email us at info@striveholistic.com and ask any questions you may have before booking this treatment to see if it's right for you.
The additional blood flow achieved from this treatment is an amazing addition to a client's treatment and helps the practitioner's work be more effective in the localized area. So what types of symptoms or pathologies is the Graston Technique useful for treating?
Scar tissue Massage
It's especially effective with increased range of motion and instant relief, and can be suited for acute, subacute, or chronic injuries, including an extremely effective scar tissue treatment. The Graston Technique is a highly effective therapy that utilizes steel instruments to lift superficial adhesions from connective tissue. Also known as "gua sha," this myofascial-based treatment can significantly increase blood flow, which is an amazing addition to any therapy. The results are impressive, with patients experiencing increased range of motion and instant relief from pain. This technique is suitable for treating acute, subacute, or chronic injuries and has proven to be extremely effective in treating scar tissue. Whether you're an athlete recovering from an injury or someone suffering from chronic pain, the Graston Technique can help you achieve the relief you need. With its non-invasive approach, ability to target specific areas of the body, as well as the practitioner's expert ability to greatly change the sensation of the sweeping technique during treatment (with the assistance of feedback from the client) this technique is a great option for anyone looking for a safe and effective treatment option.
Gua Sha
Graston therapy (AKA Gua Sha) is typically thought only to be done by physiotherapists, but massage therapists are more than capable of providing this service (and we love it!).
How does the Graston technique work? It’s a very effective active release of muscle tissue when there is a slight movement initiated by the client and directed by the practitioner. You will feel the difference when the stainless steel instrument is applied without movement vs. when it is applied with client initiated movement.
What are some things you may notice with your body during your treatment? You may see some slight and very temporary redness in the skin when the Graston instruments are applied along with the client initiated movement, but the colouring should reduce very quickly. Graston therapy, along with myofascial cupping therapy, is a very complimentary and effective combination for your therapeutic massage treatment. The Graston technique aids in lifting superficial adhesions from the affected tissue with about 30–60 seconds of the sweeping technique and client initiated movements, and then the cupping aids in creating further and deeper blood flow and lymphatic stimulation after the adhesive tissue has been encouraged to lift off the healthy tissue as a complement to the sweeping techniques as performed with the Graston Therapy. The lymphatic stimulation aids in increasing your metabolic processes in the body to stimulate the removal of any unnecessary or damaged tissue cells. The two together create a very complementary treatment protocol. Ask your practitioner about this during the assessment phase of your treatment for more information.