(1888PressRelease)
February 16, 2007 - Graston® Technique Treats Plantar Fascitis and Other Sports Injuries
Plantar fascitis is a condition in which the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot that maintains the arch of the foot (plantar fascia) becomes inflamed. It can lead to foot pain, disability, and eventually heel spurs.
Surgery and corticosteroid injections have been used in the past, with varying degrees of success.
Surgery is sometimes helpful, especially when there is a heel spur. But often the scar tissue associated with the surgery causes further restriction, pain and dysfunction of the foot. Corticosteroid injections can be helpful as well, but the steroid causes the soft tissue and bone to break down and weaken. Therefore, this is not an option that can be used with any regularity.
Luckily, there are some alternatives. One of the newest and most exciting breakthroughs in the treatment of soft tissue injuries is Graston® technique. The technique involves the use of six different stainless steel instruments, each specially shaped for a variety of body parts. Not only therapeutic, but Graston® technique also helps the practitioner to identify areas with adhesions and scar tissue.
This is an exciting development in the treatment of soft tissue injuries. Not only can the doctor focus the treatment and identify the injured areas more easily, old injuries once thought to be refractory to treatment are now treatable.
Plantar fascitis is a stubborn condition. Many physical therapists, physiatrists, chiropractors, and podiatrists are frustrated by the lack of response to treatment. With Graston® technique, combined with other modalities, there is a quantum leap in recovery rates. When used as an adjunct to manipulation, ultrasound, cross-friction, and active release technique, Graston® technique tends to enhance the effect of the other modalities.
While no technique or treatment protocol is the panacea for the masses, Graston® technique advances soft tissue treatment a big leap forward, especially in the treatment of plantar fascitis and other sports-related injuries.
###
