The Graston technique is an instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) method in which the physiotherapist works on soft tissues such as muscle, tendon, ligament and fascia with specially designed stainless-steel instruments.
In chronic muscle–tendon problems, adhesions, hardening and scar tissue can build up in the tissue over time. These layers, which the hand cannot always reach, are addressed more accurately with the controlled stimulus the instrument transmits to the tissue; the aim is to reduce pain and restore glide and range of motion.
Graston is not a miracle on its own; it gains meaning when applied together with an exercise, stretching and loading program. At my clinic in Kağıthane I use this technique as part of a holistic program in cases I find suitable after assessment.
Who is it suitable for?
- People with long-standing tennis or golfer’s elbow (lateral/medial epicondylitis)
- People with Achilles tendon pain and tendinitis
- People with morning heel pain due to heel spur / plantar fasciitis
- People who develop scar tissue and adhesions after surgery or injury
- People with hardness and trigger-point pain in chronic neck, back and low-back muscles
- People with restricted range of motion and “callous-like” hardened tissue areas
How is the Graston technique applied?
An assessment is always done before application; the source of the pain and the state of the tissue are determined. A gliding gel is then applied to the area, and controlled stroking movements are made in specific directions with steel instruments of different edge angles.
The instrument “transmits” to the physiotherapist tissue tensions the hand cannot feel, helping locate the problem area more clearly. The area may redden briefly after application; this is an expected sign of increased blood flow to the tissue.
Which complaints is it used for?
Graston is preferred especially in chronic soft-tissue problems that do not respond adequately to hands-on techniques:
- Tennis/golfer’s elbow (epicondylitis)
- Achilles tendinitis and patellar (kneecap) tendon pain
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Post-surgery scar tissue and adhesions
- Chronic neck, back and low-back muscle tension and myofascial trigger points
- Restricted movement in the wrist, forearm and calf area
Is Graston a painful application?
During application there may be a slight discomfort or a “good pain” sensation, especially in the problem area; but the dose is adjusted to each patient and it is not an unbearable procedure.
Temporary redness or slight tenderness may appear in the area after application, usually receding within a day or two. Use of blood thinners, active infection, open wounds and some skin conditions can prevent application — so we discuss your history in detail at the assessment.
How many sessions are needed?
Depending on the type of complaint and how long it has lasted, a program of usually 1–2 sessions a week, 4–8 sessions in total, is applied. Graston is not built alone each session; it is combined with stretching, exercise and gradual tissue-loading work — lasting results come from this wholeness.
What happens in a session?
- 01
Assessment
I listen to your complaint, determine the source of the pain and the state of the tissue through movement and palpation; we decide together whether Graston is suitable for you.
- 02
Instrument application
Gel is applied to the area and soft-tissue mobilization is done with controlled, directional movements using steel instruments.
- 03
Exercise and loading
After the application we work together on area-specific stretching and strengthening movements, and I give you your home program in writing.
Common questions about Graston Therapy (IASTM)
What is the Graston technique?
Are Graston and “scraping therapy” the same thing?
Does bruising occur after application?
Is Graston enough on its own?
Who is it not applied to?
The information on this page is for general information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice or diagnosis. A diagnosis is made by a physician. For your complaint, please consult a healthcare provider.