Graston Technique® for Soft Tissue Therapy

What Is Graston Therapy?

The Graston Technique® is a clinically supported form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) used by physical therapists and physiotherapists to treat soft tissue restrictions. It involves the use of specially designed Graston instruments that glide over muscles, tendons, and ligaments to detect and break down adhesions. These restrictions often limit mobility and contribute to chronic pain or stiffness. Through precise, controlled movements, Graston therapy helps restore tissue flexibility and improve range of motion.

A Guide to Pain Relief and Healing

Graston Therapy is especially effective for sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, and overuse conditions like tendinitis. By improving circulation and stimulating cellular repair, it supports the body’s natural healing process. Patients often experience reduced pain, faster recovery, and improved function. It’s a valuable addition to many physical therapy treatment plans.

Who Can Benefit from Graston Therapy?

The Graston Technique® is a non-invasive treatment for a wide range of soft tissue injuries and chronic pain conditions. Whether you're an athlete, desk worker, or recovering from surgery, this therapy targets deep tissue restrictions that limit movement and cause discomfort. Using specialized Graston instruments, physical therapists improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing for conditions like tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, and repetitive strain injuries.

• Athletes and active individuals use Graston Therapy to recover more quickly from muscle strains, ligament sprains, and repetitive-motion injuries that limit performance.
• People with chronic conditions like tendonitis, shoulder impingement, or plantar fasciitis find relief through Graston Therapy, which targets deep tissue restrictions that cause long-term pain.
• Post-surgical patients rely on Graston Therapy to break down scar tissue and restore flexibility in healing tissues after orthopedic procedures.
• Workers with repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tennis elbow, can improve function and reduce discomfort through regular Graston Therapy sessions.
• Individuals experiencing back, neck, or joint stiffness benefit from Graston Therapy’s ability to restore tissue mobility and reduce muscular tension without invasive treatment.

How Graston Therapy Works to Heal and Restore Your Health

Step 1: Detection — Finding the Root of the Restriction

Using specialized stainless-steel instruments, your physical therapist glides along your muscles to detect irregular tissue textures. These tools provide a level of sensitivity that enables precise identification of tightness, adhesions, and fibrotic tissue beneath the skin.

Step 2: Treatment — Targeting and Releasing the Adhesions

Once problem areas are found, our physical therapist applies controlled pressure to break down scar tissue and improve circulation. This process stimulates the body’s healing mechanisms by promoting collagen realignment and increasing nutrient delivery to damaged tissues.

Step 3: Recovery — Restoring Balance and Mobility

After treatment, your soft tissues begin to remodel and regain elasticity. The therapy boosts your body’s natural ability to move fluidly, reducing stiffness and discomfort. Paired with therapeutic exercises and stretching, Graston Therapy accelerates healing and helps prevent future injuries.

What to Expect After Graston Therapy

After your session, you may feel mild tenderness or redness—an encouraging sign that circulation and tissue healing have begun. These effects typically fade within 24 to 48 hours, often followed by improved flexibility and reduced tension. Your physical therapist will guide you through post-treatment exercises, such as light stretching, strengthening, and posture correction, to maintain your results. At our San Antonio physical therapy clinic, we focus on consistent, personalized care to support lasting recovery and long-term progress.