Graston Technique for Surgical Scar Tissue

During surgery, otherwise healthy tissue is often incised. After healing, scar tissue is typically left behind. In certain parts of the body, this scar tissue can negatively impact range of motion and may also cause stiffness, pain, swelling and inflammation. Fortunately, you don't have to resign yourself to putting up with these issues. The Graston Technique, an innovative scar tissue treatment, is among the most effective ways to address surgery scar tissue and problems that are associated with it.

What is the Graston Technique?

If you visit the chiropractor at all, you may already be somewhat familiar with the Graston technique. Developed by athlete David Graston, it's a manual soft tissue technique that relies on stainless steel tools, or instruments, to break up scar tissue adhesions and fascial restrictions. These instruments are also used to detect areas of fibrosis and chronic inflammation. They increase our ability to detect surgery scar tissue and can then be used to break up the associated restrictions and adhesions.

Understanding Surgery Scar Tissue

To understand why the Graston technique is such a useful form of scar tissue treatment, it helps to understand scar tissue in general. When soft tissue in the body is damaged, it tends to heal in a haphazard and "fibrotic" way, which means that excessive fibrous connective tissue develops to compensate for the damage. The resulting tissue tends to be thicker than healthy tissue and usually has an irregular organization and less precise margins. As a result, it often impedes range of motion and causes chronic pain.

Benefits of Scar Tissue Treatment with the Graston Technique

Treating surgery scar tissue with this technique is beneficial in a number of ways. First, it decreases treatment time by more quickly breaking up restrictions and adhesions. It also reduces the need for NSAIDs and other medications, which further enhances the body's ability to heal. Safe, effective and non-invasive, it's a viable option for anyone who suffers from problems due to surgery scar tissue.

Is This Scar Tissue Treatment Right for You?

The Graston technique is one of the most effective scar tissue treatments available today. Please note, however, that it is not used alone when treating surgery scar tissue. Rather, it is performed after your muscles are warmed up. When the treatment is complete, you will perform stretching exercises that promote the proper realignment of tissue fibers. This is followed up by strengthening exercises and icing. If you have scar tissue that is impeding your range of motion, causing chronic pain or otherwise negatively affecting you, this treatment could be right for you.