GRASTON TECHNIQUE

Dr. Soroush Khoshroo – Graston Technique Practitioner

Dr. Khoshroo is a certified Graston soft tissue Technique practitioner in North Vancouver at QubeCore Sports & Rehab. He uses Graston soft tissue Technique in combination with other techniques such as chiropractic manipulation, Active Release Technique, and Kinesio Taping to achieve the greatest soft tissue release, scar tissue breakup, and tissue realignment in order to maximize healing.

What is the Graston Technique?

Graston Technique is an innovative, patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that enables clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to specifically detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation.

What does the technique do? How does it work?

  • Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers
  • Increases skin temperature
  • Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern
  • Alters spinal reflux activity (facilitated segment)
  • Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
  • Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells
  • Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity

What conditions are treated using Graston Technique or IASTM?

Dr. Khoshroo uses Graston Technique (IASTM) on a variety of conditions. Some of the conditions treated by Dr. Soroush Khoshroo include:

  • Cervical sprain/strain (Neck)
  • Lumbar sprain/strain (Low back)
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis elbow)
  • Medial epicondylitis (Golfer’s elbow)
  • Rotator cuff tendonitis (Shoulder sprain/strain)
  • Patello-femoral syndrome
  • Infrapatellar tendonitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Shin splints
  • ITB syndrome
  • Quad & hamstring strain
  • Ankle sprain/strain

Why is scar tissue a problem?

Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as he or she did before the injury.

How is scar tissue different from other tissue?

When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different fashions: dense, regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense, irregular and loose with fibers running in multiple directions. In either instance, when tissue is damaged it will heal in a haphazard pattern–or scarring–that results in a restricted range of motion and, very often, pain.

How are the instruments used?

The Graston Technique instruments are used to enhance the clinician’s ability to detect adhesions, scar tissue or restrictions in the affected areas. Skilled clinicians use the stainless steel instruments to comb over and “catch” on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has Graston Toolsbeen identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body.

Is the treatment painful?

It is common to experience minor discomfort during the procedure and some bruising afterwards. This is a normal response and part of the healing process. Some soreness the day after the treatment can be expected.

Is Graston Technique used alone?

No. Whether the injury is work or non-work related, the Graston Technique protocol is the same. Our protocol includes a brief warm-up exercise, Graston Technique treatment, followed by stretching, strengthening and ice.  Dr. Khoshroo also combines other therapies such chiropractic manipulative therapy, Active Release Technique, and Kinesio Taping to obtain maximal therapeutic results.

What is the frequency of treatment?

Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the 3rd to 4th treatment.

Will treatments affect everyday activities?

Most patients are not disabled and continue to perform their regular functions at home or work.

Is Graston Technique something new?

The concept of cross fiber massage is not new. Graston Technique is grounded in the works of Dr. James Cyriax, an English orthopedic surgeon. The use of our specially designed instruments and protocol is new. Graston Technique has become standard protocol in universities and hospital-based outpatient facilities as well as industrial on-site treatment settings such as Indiana University and the University of Michigan. The technique is also being used at industrial settings and by NBA, NHL, NFL and Major League Baseball trainers.

What kind of results does Graston Technique produce?

Historically, the Graston Technique has had positive outcomes in 75–90 percent of all conditions treated. It is equally effective in restoring function to acute and chronic injuries, and pre- and post-surgical patients. Click here for Outcome Summary Data of the 17 most common diagnoses.

Can anyone obtain and use the instruments?

Only clinicians who have been trained and accredited in the Graston Technique Basic course are qualified to obtain the Graston Technique instruments and apply the technique to treat patients. The course is offered either on-site or at trainings offered throughout the year at a variety of locations. Dr. Khoshroo is certified and qualified in using Graston Technique on patients.

Dr. Khoshroo uses Graston Technique in North Vancouver at QubeCore Sports & Rehab.