6/22/2015 4 Comments The Graston TechniqueSince Dr. Gardner often uses the Graston Technique with patients, I thought that I would expand on the topic and provide more information on Graston, how it helps recovery, and what to expect with the treatment. What is the Graston Technique? The Graston Technique is a scientifically advanced from of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that uses specially contoured stainless steel instruments to examine and treat soft tissue injuries. The Graston instruments mobilize, release and lengthen soft tissues that are tight, shortened or restricted, with the end goal being restoration of normal movement and postural alignment. The technique was developed in the early 1990’s and has grown to become popular with chiropractors, physical and occupational therapists and athletic trainers. The Graston approach is used for acute and chronic sprains, repetitive strain injuries and for scars. Injuries such as achilles tendinosis, plantar fasciitis back and neck pain and carpal tunnel syndrome are often treated via application of the Graston Technique. There are six patented Graston instruments that have unique features and contours that are designed to treat different muscles and joints of the body. How Does it Help? The goal of the Graston Technique is to reduce pain levels and increase function of an injured area. Graston treatment involves manipulating the soft tissue with a cross-friction massage with the Graston instrument. The tool is rubbed against the grain of the scar-tissue that has built up due to injury, introducing small amounts of micro-trauma that can sometimes result in inflammation. While it may seem that the Graston Technique causes additional injury, it is theorized that the treatment actually promotes healing to the area through the new micro-trauma. After Graston is applied, the healing process of the body is stimulated, initiating an increase the rate and amount of blood flow, bringing additional oxygen, nutrients and cells that promote healing. What to Expect With Graston Treatment The Graston Technique may cause some discomfort in some patients, depending on their injury and pain tolerance. The cross-friction massage can cause inflammation in the area that is treated and may result in bruising, which is a normal occurrence. The injured area can also be sore after treatment, though the application of ice for 15-20 minutes may ease any potential discomfort. While Graston may cause some temporary discomfort, it has the potential to decrease overall treatment time, result in faster rehabilitation and recovery and reduce the need for anti-inflammatory medicine such as Advil or Aleve. References: Spine Health: http://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/graston-technique-indications-and-contraindications Hyde, T. (2007). Conservative management of sports injuries (2nd ed., pp. 300-310). Sudbury, Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett. Tim Bryan St. Lawrence University '15 Mirror Lake Chiropractic Intern
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Training for a race that consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile run presents an athlete with an incredible physical and mental challenge. Unfortunately, triathlon training also provides many opportunities for injury due to cumulative stress and overtraining, which can result in a broad range of injuries. While the potential for injuries may seem daunting to athletes, chiropractic treatment can help to negate these stresses and keep athletes in peak physical condition.
Chiropractic treatment is based on maintaining a homeostasis, or balance, in the body. If the body is out of balance, the body’s mechanics begin to get altered. An imbalance or weakness can cause the recruitment of other muscles or joints in order to compensate. This leads to inefficient bodily movements that can have a negative impact on performance and activities of daily living. Chiropractors attempt to bring the body back into homeostasis by realigning the spine and joints through adjustments and manipulations. Many injuries that are experienced while training for a triathlon can be attributed to a weak core. Improving core and spine stability through chiropractic interventions and adjustments can help to treat current injuries and preemptively treat future ailments by regaining the bodies homeostasis. Chiropractic treatment is also a critical component of recovery after a triathlon. Chiropractic care can help athletes recover by treating injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints that may have occurred during the race. Post race adjustments to the spine can help to alleviate excess pressure on spinal cord nerves, reducing pain levels across the body. Chiropractic treatment, either in the preparation or recovery phase, is a critical component of triathlon training. References: Princeton Magazine: http://www.princetonmagazine.com/advice-from-chiropractor-and-triathlete-dr-leonard-ershow/ Midland Chiropractic Sports Rehab: http://www.midlandchiropractic.com/runners-and-triathletes-chiropractic-care/ The Joint: http://chiropractorphoenix-thejoint.com/paradise-village/triathlon-pushes-body-to-its-limits-chiropractic-heals/ Tim Bryan St. Lawrence University '15 Mirror Lake Chiropractic Intern What is Electrical Muscle Stimulation? Electrical stimulation treatments involve placing electrodes on the skin over painful or afflicted areas. When activated, the electrodes send small electrical pulses to the muscles below the electrodes, which in turn cause them to become innervated and leads to repeated muscle contractions. While this may sound unpleasant to some, the process is pain free and the contractions often result in a tingling or warming sensation. What are the Benefits of Electrical Muscle Stimulation? One of the main uses of electrical stimulation is for pain relief of the patient. The electrically innervated muscles cause repeated contractions, which leads to an increased amount of blood flow to the area, hastening the healing process. Increasing the blood flow helps to reduce the inflammation around the injury, which also increases the patients' range of motion. Stimulating the muscles can lead to the release of endorphins in the brain as well. These neurotransmitters, the same ones that are released after working out, tend to cause a feeling of euphoria and they enhance immune responses that help to regulate pain. Electrical stimulation can also help to prevent muscle guarding, in which muscles become tense to prevent pain or further injury. The electrical impulses cause the guarding muscles to become fatigued, allowing them to fully relax. Relaxation of the muscles helps to maximize the effects of later treatments. Electrical stimulation can also prevent muscle death and degradation. People with injuries often tend to avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort to the injured area. Doing so can actually lead to muscle degradation when muscles surrounding the injury are not utilized. Muscle contractions via electrical stimulation can help retain muscle mass, tone and strength, even when the surrounding area is injured. Tim Bryan St. Lawrence University '15 Mirror Lake Chiropractic Intern References:
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AuthorMalorie Gardner, D.C. Archives
October 2016
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