All About the Graston Technique®

Scar tissue, chronic tightness, old injuries, and repetitive strain can all create restrictions that limit mobility and cause lingering discomfort. The Graston Technique® is a specialized form of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) that helps break down these restrictions, relieve pain, and support healthy tissue healing.

At Inlet Integrated Health, our trained practitioners use precise stainless-steel instruments to identify and treat problem areas with controlled, therapeutic pressure, helping you move more freely and feel more comfortable in your daily life.

What Is the Graston Technique®?

Graston Technique uses specially designed tools to gently “scan” and treat muscles, tendons, and fascia. These tools help practitioners detect adhesions or areas of tension that can’t always be felt by hand.

During treatment, the instrument is applied with specific strokes or pressure to help:

• Break down scar tissue

• Release fascial restrictions

• Reduce chronic muscle tension

• Improve mobility and function

• Encourage healthy tissue repair

It is a highly effective method used by physiotherapists, chiropractors, RMTs, and athletic therapists around the world.

What Conditions Can the Graston Technique Help With?

Graston can be helpful for anyone experiencing soft tissue restrictions due to injury, overuse, or chronic tension. Common conditions include:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Tennis elbow / Golfer’s elbow

• Patellar tendonitis / Jumper’s knee

• Carpal tunnel–type symptoms

• Rotator cuff issues

• Neck and back muscle tension

• Hip flexor tightness

• Scar tissue from previous injuries

• IT band syndrome

It’s also helpful for athletes seeking faster recovery or anyone dealing with lingering stiffness that doesn’t improve with stretching alone.

Benefits of Graston Technique®

Breaks Down Scar Tissue & Adhesions

The controlled pressure of the instrument helps soften and remodel tight or sticky tissue.

Improves Mobility & Range of Motion

As restrictions release, joints and muscles move more freely and naturally.

Reduces Pain

By treating the underlying restriction, many people notice a decrease in pain and discomfort.

Enhances Recovery

Increases blood flow to the area, supporting healing after injury or strain.

Complements Other Therapies

Pairs well with physiotherapy, chiropractic care, stretching, and exercise therapy.

What to Expect During Treatment

Your practitioner will begin by assessing the area and applying a small amount of lotion or emollient to allow smooth movement of the tool.

During your session you may experience:

• A scraping, gliding, or brushing sensation

• Mild discomfort depending on the tissue tension

• Redness or warmth in the treated area

• A feeling of “release” or increased movement afterward

After treatment, some people experience temporary tenderness similar to post-workout soreness. This is normal and typically resolves within 24–48 hours.

Sessions are always tailored to your comfort, pace, and treatment goals.

Is Graston Technique® Right for You?

Graston is beneficial for people with chronic tightness, sports-related injuries, repetitive strain, or discomfort caused by scar tissue. It’s suited for many ages and activity levels.

Your practitioner will help determine whether this technique is the best fit for your needs or if another approach may be recommended as part of your treatment plan.

Why Choose Inlet Integrated Health?

Our integrative team takes a whole-body approach to care. The practitioners who offer Graston Technique are trained to use it safely, effectively, and in coordination with your broader wellness plan.

You’ll receive:

• Knowledgeable, skilled practitioners

• A calm, supportive treatment environment

• A personalized approach to soft-tissue care

• Recommendations for stretches or exercises if helpful

• Collaboration across disciplines (massage, physio, chiropractic, counselling)

Your comfort and long-term well-being are always our priority.

Book a Graston Technique Session

If you’re experiencing tightness, scar tissue, or discomfort that keeps returning, the Graston Technique may help you move more freely again.

Book online or contact our team for availability.