How does Graston/IASTM promote healing?

Soft tissue injuries, as well as muscular pain and inflammation, are all common concerns for people from all walks of life, from athletes to office workers. Because of the frequency of such complaints, there are a wide range of treatment options available, from qualified professionals. One of the most effective treatment options is the Graston Technique, which is also known as Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM). So what is this? And how does Graston/IASTM promote healing?

What is Graston/IASTM?

So first of all, what is this treatment option? Well, this is a technique that uses specialised instruments, often made from stainless steel, to identify and treat soft tissue problems. These instruments are specifically designed for their purpose, and have different shapes and edges for different purposes. A professional practitioner, like us here at Core Holistic, can use these different instruments to resolve issues with muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even scar tissue.

What are the instruments used in Graston/IASTM?

So how does Graston/IASTM promote healing?

Graston IASTM can promote healing in a range of different ways, including:

• Breaking down scar tissue 
• Stimulating the natural healing process 
• Reducing inflammation 
• Enhancing range of motion 

Breaking down scar tissue 

One of the main ways that Graston/IASTM promotes healing is by breaking down scar tissue and adhesions. After an injury, the body will naturally form scar tissue around the site to protect the injury. However, this can become problematic as it can occasionally begin to restrict movement and even cause pain. Graston/IASTM is designed specifically to help with this issue, with the tools and instruments effectively disrupting and remodelling the scar tissue to restore functional movement and flexibility.

Stimulating the natural healing process 

In addition, Graston/IASTM stimulates the body’s natural healing response. This is because of the pressure applied by the specific instruments, in just the right places. This pressure causes a number of physiological changes in the body, including an increase of blood flow, the production of collagen and an increase in cellular activity. All of this combines to promote the regeneration and repair of damaged tissue, leading to improved healing, increased functionality, and reduced pain.

Reducing inflammation 

This therapy option is also highly effective for reducing pain and tackling the inflammation that often accompanies soft tissue injuries. This is because the process and tools used can break down adhesions, which can relieve the pressure on the surrounding nerves, as well as decreasing inflammation, and reducing tension in the soft tissue and muscles. All of this helps to provide immediate pain relief, while also promoting overall healing and recovery. 

Enhancing range of motion 

Finally, this treatment option can be a fantastic choice for increasing the range of motion and flexibility in joints and muscles. Soft tissue damage often limits all of these factors, leading to pain and further injury risk due to overcompensating for the injury site. Graston/IASTM can be very effective for restoring a normal range of motion, while also improving overall movement quality, and reducing the likelihood of recurrent injuries.

For more information or advice about how Graston/IASTM can help with your soft tissue injury or problem, get in touch with the professionals today here at Core Holistic. We are Preston’s leading massage therapy experts and we have the skills and expertise to provide outstanding healing results.