Graston Technique
How Myofascial Release Improves Chiropractic Outcomes
At Anatomica, chiropractic care is grounded in functional movement and evidence-informed manual therapy. Many of the individuals we work with arrive at treatment with a combination of postural stress, soft tissue tension, and mobility restrictions. In these cases, joint manipulation alone is rarely enough to create lasting change. Integrating soft tissue techniques such as Graston Technique and myofascial release helps support better outcomes, especially when addressing injuries, compensation patterns, or long-standing strain.
These techniques are especially useful in managing conditions related to repetitive use, overtraining, motor vehicle accidents, or ergonomic strain. When applied appropriately, they help improve tissue health, reduce guarding, and restore balanced movement—making chiropractic adjustments both more comfortable and more effective.
Graston Technique is a form of Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Manipulation (ASTM) and is an adaptation of the traditional Gua Sha technique used by TCM practitioners.
Myofascial Release: Restoring Glide and Reducing Tension
Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles throughout the body. It plays a key role in movement, alignment, and proprioception. When fascia becomes restricted—due to trauma, repetitive movement, or prolonged postural strain—it can create stiffness, pain, or altered mechanics in the surrounding joints and muscles.
Myofascial release refers to a variety of hands-on techniques that help reduce this tension. These may include sustained pressure, slow stretching, or specific movement cues that encourage the tissue to release and reorganize. Common concerns addressed with myofascial release include:
- Muscle tightness that limits joint motion
- Headaches and jaw pain related to tension
- Postural imbalance or compensation
- Residual discomfort following injury
When used alongside chiropractic treatment, myofascial release supports more balanced movement and can reduce the likelihood of pain returning between visits.
Graston Technique: A Targeted Approach to Tissue Dysfunction
Graston Technique is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that uses stainless steel tools to detect and treat myofascial adhesions and soft tissue restrictions. The practitioner applies a gentle scraping motion across the skin to help release dysfunctional tissue and stimulate the body’s natural healing response. IASTM is an adaptation of the traditional Gua Sha technique used by TCM practitioners. It’s commonly used in the treatment of:
- Tendinopathies (such as tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis, or rotator cuff strain)
- Plantar fasciitis
- Post-surgical scar tissue
- IT band syndrome
- Chronic neck or low back stiffness
At Anatomica, Graston Technique is provided by Dr. Henry Pham, whose clinical focus includes injury rehabilitation, accident recovery, and exercise-based therapy. His background in strength and conditioning informs a treatment approach that pairs manual techniques with active rehab. Graston is used not just to reduce symptoms, but to improve mobility and prepare the body for more functional movement.
Why Manual Therapy Makes a Difference
Soft tissue techniques are often the missing link in musculoskeletal care. While joint adjustments are effective for restoring motion, the surrounding muscles and fascia play an important role in maintaining that mobility. Without addressing tissue restrictions, pain and dysfunction are more likely to return.
By combining manual therapy with spinal or joint-focused treatment, chiropractors can:
- Reduce local inflammation and muscle guarding
- Improve circulation to support tissue healing
- Enhance proprioception and motor control
- Help patients engage more effectively with rehab exercises
- Support functional goals like lifting, running, or simply sitting comfortably at work
Integrated Care, Better Outcomes
At Anatomica, chiropractic care is delivered in the context of an integrated, multidisciplinary team. We work closely with physiotherapists, massage therapists, osteopathic practitioners, and acupuncturists to ensure each person receives a treatment plan that reflects their specific goals and physical needs.
Whether part of a post-accident rehab plan or used to address chronic muscle tension, techniques like Graston and myofascial release help support the body’s ability to adapt, recover, and move more efficiently. By addressing both the joint mechanics and the surrounding soft tissues, we can reduce pain, improve function, and help each person return to the activities that matter most to them.
