What Is the ART®/Graston® Technique?

The ART®/Graston® technique treats the body’s soft tissues through the combination of movement and manipulation. An instrument-assisted mobilization is a form of therapy that uses ergonomic tools to gently massage and scape skin sections.

The instruments treat soft tissue injuries such as subluxations, strains, sprains, and repetitive use injuries. The technique identifies, isolates, and targets the affected area, breaking up scar tissue.

 

Using the ART/Graston Technique

ART helps with issues connected to the muscles, ligaments, nerves, and tendons. It can treat pain and symptoms of damage or injury to the fascia like plantar fasciitis. The fibrous connective tissue supports and protects body muscles and organs. Inflammation of the fascia tissue can lead to stiffness and extreme pain.

ART treats pulls and strains to the major muscle groups that result from trauma or overuse. The technique helps treat tendon and ligament injuries that lead to pain and cause a reduced range of motion.

 

Conditions Treated With ART

ART treats several conditions. These are chronic neck pain, lower back pain, tension headaches, and shoulder strains. The technique helps treat:

 

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
   

• Sciatic nerve pain
   

• Shin splints
   

• Plantar fasciitis
   

• Bursitis
   

• Tennis elbow
  
   

ART reduces the scar tissue that limits flexibility, resulting in pain and stiffness in the joints and muscles. It breaks up the results of the adhesion in the free movement of the tissues.

 

How ART/Graston Technique Works

The practitioner uses the appropriate instruments to scan and treat the target area during the procedure. Clinicians apply specific and calculated techniques to rub the affected area. They use stainless steel instruments and six special tools.

 

They help break up adhesions, the dense scar tissue that binds the muscles. The treatment takes about 30 to 60 seconds on each targeted area. You may experience slight discomfort during treatment.

 

Benefits of ART/Graston Technique

ART helps reduce fibrous connective tissue. The scar tissue receives less blood and stretches less than normal tissue. The benefits of ART include:

 

• Improved range of motion
   

• Increased flexibility and mobility
   

• Reduction in pain and inflammation
   

• Relieving tension headaches
  
   

Another benefit is increased blood flow to the affected areas. It enhances healing and boosts cellular activity. The technique helps break down collagen cross-links and improves sciatic symptoms.

 

After ART Treatment

After treatments, patients will usually experience soreness and bruising. They often experience small red dots over the treatment area, a condition known as petechiae. Any soreness or discomfort after the procedure can be relieved using an ice application.

Practitioners recommend using stretches, exercises, and strengthening techniques, alongside the Graston technique. It helps rehabilitate the body and allows the effective healing of the injured tissues.

Patients usually receive two treatment sessions a week for five weeks. Most people experience relief in their symptoms by the third treatment. After the first treatment, patients report reduced pain and an increased range of motion. Patients can return to their activities or sports soon after treatment. The results will vary depending on the patient and the type of injury.

For more on the ART/Graston technique, contact Cashae Spine & Sports at our office in Silver Spring, Maryland. You can call (240) 219-8975 today to schedule an appointment.