Graston Technique and Scar Tissue
The first step in treatment is to identify scar tissue. Microscopically, healthy tissue is smooth, longitudinal, and symmetrical in presentation. Scar tissue i.e. fibrosis is laid down by our bodies in a very haphazard and erratic fashion. Picture below.
During palpation, fibrosis will feel gritty or knotted. At OrthoWell/ WalkWell , we use instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and manual scar release technique sto “break up” restrictions. This deep massage creates a reactive inflammation which “jump starts” healing. Keep in mind that inflammation can occur without healing, but healing cannot occur without inflammation. During the inflammatory stage, scar tissue can be reabsorbed by the body. During the fibroblastic phase of healing, the damaged tissue is replaced by new collagen. This new collagen is reformatted through proper exercise. This “process” can take 3-6 months in chronic cases. So what does the research tell us about IASTM?
Instruments of Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Craig Davidson et al in “Morphologic and functional changes in rat Achilles tendon following collagenase and GASTM”, J Am College Sports Med, 1995;27 showed increased fibroblast proliferation in the IASTM group and stated that “ the study suggests that IASTM may promote healing via increased fibroblast recruitment.”
Gale Gehlsen et al in “Fibroblasts responses to variation in soft tissue mobilization pressure”, Med Sci Sports Exer, 1999;31:531-535 showed morphological evidence indicating that “the application of heavy pressure during IASTM promoted more fibroblastic proliferation compared to light or moderate pressure.”
Mary Loghmani et al in a 2006 research project at Indiana University (pending publication)
revealed that “ligaments treated with IASTM were found to be 31% stronger and 34% stiffer than untreated ligaments”
using Graston Technique instruments.
As a result of almost 2 decades of asking questions and critically appraising my successes and failures, I have become convinced that the “missing link” in the treatment of soft tissue lesions is the proper release of scar tissue. Rehabilitation is accomplished through the functional integration of deep massage, strengthening, stretching, joint mobilization, cardiovascular exercise, and compliance with a home exercise program. Correcting biomechanical deficiencies with foot orthotics is also a consideration.
Most physical therapists do an adequate job of treating pain. Acute pain usually resolves with the most innocuous of therapy interventions. However, the only way to prevent reoccurrence of symptoms is to ensure that every aspect of the dysfunction is being treated in the most comprehensive manner. At OrthoWell/ WalkWell ,we do just that!
David Graston’s SASTM technique:
Graston Technique demonstration: