Graston Technique in New Iberia

Muscle tightness, restricted movement, and soft-tissue discomfort can sometimes make it difficult to move the way you want. Whether you’re dealing with an athletic injury, repetitive strain, or an area that simply feels tight and restricted, targeted soft-tissue care may be one part of a broader treatment approach.

At Theriot Family Chiropractic Center in New Iberia, LA, we offer Graston Technique as a treatment option for appropriate patients. Graston Technique uses specialized stainless-steel instruments to help identify and treat areas of soft-tissue restriction as part of a comprehensive approach to movement and musculoskeletal care.

What is Graston Technique?

Graston Technique is a form of instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization (IASTM). During treatment, specially designed stainless-steel instruments are used along the skin over targeted muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. The instruments allow the practitioner to assess and treat areas of soft-tissue restriction using specific strokes and techniques. Graston Technique is generally used as part of a broader treatment plan rather than as a stand-alone solution.

What can Graston be Used For?

Graston Technique may be considered for a variety of musculoskeletal complaints involving muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues.

Depending on your individual presentation, it may be incorporated into care for:

• Muscle tightness
• Restricted movement
• Repetitive-use injuries
• Certain sports-related injuries
• Tendon-related complaints
• Areas of persistent soft-tissue discomfort
• Muscle soreness or tension
• Recovery following certain injuries

The technique isn’t appropriate for every condition or every patient.

An evaluation helps determine whether instrument-assisted soft-tissue treatment is appropriate for your particular symptoms.

How Does Graston Technique Work?

During treatment, your provider uses a specialized instrument along the surface of the skin over the targeted area.

The instrument provides a different way to assess and apply controlled pressure to the soft tissues.

Treatment may focus on areas where there is:

• Muscle tightness
• Reduced tissue mobility
• Tenderness
• Restricted movement
• Areas of soft-tissue irritation

The technique is generally performed along with movement or other treatment strategies rather than replacing active rehabilitation.

What does Graston Technique feel like?

You may feel pressure, scraping, or a firm gliding sensation as the instrument moves across the skin.

Some areas may be more sensitive than others.

Treatment should be performed at an appropriate intensity based on your individual tolerance and the area being treated.

Temporary tenderness or mild soreness can occur afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions About Graston Technique

Does Graston Technique hurt?

You may feel pressure or some discomfort during treatment, particularly when an area is sensitive or restricted. Treatment intensity can be adjusted based on your tolerance.

Temporary soreness or tenderness afterward is possible.

Will Graston Technique leave marks?

Some patients may experience temporary redness or discoloration following treatment. The amount can vary depending on the individual and the area treated.

Any marks should be discussed with your provider if they are significant, persistent, or concerning.

How long does a Graston Technique treatment take?

Treatment time varies depending on the area being treated and whether Graston Technique is being combined with other forms of care.

Your provider can explain what to expect during your appointment.

How many Graston treatments will I need?

There is no set number of treatments that applies to everyone.

The frequency and duration of care depend on your condition, how long you’ve experienced symptoms, your response to treatment, and your overall care plan.

Can Graston Technique be combined with chiropractic adjustments?

Yes. Graston Technique may be incorporated into a broader chiropractic care plan when appropriate.

Your provider will determine which combination of treatments makes the most sense for your individual presentation.

Is Graston Technique the same as a massage?

No. Although both involve working with soft tissues, Graston Technique uses specialized instruments and specific treatment techniques.

It is a form of instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization rather than traditional massage.

Can Graston Technique help with sports injuries?

It may be considered as part of a comprehensive approach for certain sports-related muscle and soft-tissue complaints.

An evaluation is important to determine whether the technique is appropriate for your particular injury.

Can Graston Technique help with scar tissue?

Graston Technique is commonly described as a way to address scar tissue and soft-tissue restrictions. However, we don’t promise that treatment will “break up” or eliminate scar tissue.

Instead, treatment is used to address soft-tissue mobility and function as part of a broader care plan.

Is Graston Technique appropriate for everyone?

No. Certain medical conditions, medications, injuries, or other circumstances may make instrument-assisted soft-tissue treatment inappropriate or require additional evaluation first.

That’s why an individualized assessment is important.