Home Meet Dr. Kris Therapies FAQs First Visit WCB ICBC Office Hours Fees Orthotics Newsletter Articles/Tips Massage Therapy Contact	THE GRASTON TOOL   © Copyright 2003-2007 Dr. Krisjan M. Gustavson. Please ask permission to reproduce. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q: What is the Graston Tool? A: The Graston Tool incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal functions. The Tool: Separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers Increases skin temperature Facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern Alters spinal reflex activity Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity Q: Why is scar tissue a problem? A: Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as he or she did before the injury. Q: How is scar tissue different from other tissue? A: When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue can take a couple of different fashions: dense regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments; or dense irregular and loose with fibers running in multiple direction. In either instance, when tissue is damaged it will heal in a haphazard pattern-or-scarring, that results in a restricted range of motion. Q: How are the instruments used? A: The Graston Tool Instruments are used to enhance Dr. Gustavson's ability to detect adhesions, scar tissue or restrictions in the affected areas. Dr. Gustavson uses the stainless steel instruments to comb over and "catch" on fibrotic tissue that immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so the body can absorb it. Q: Is the treatment painful? A: It is common to experience minor discomfort during the procedure and some bruising afterwards. This is a normal response and part of the healing process. Q: What is the frequency of treatment? A: Patients usually receive two treatments per week over 4-5 weeks. Most patients have a positive response by the 3rd to 4th treatment. Dr. Gustavson is a certified memeber of the Graston Network. Learn more about the Graston Tool here.
	Fort Street Family Chiropractic 1007 Fort St. Victoria, BC  Phone: 250.382.0018
© Copyright 2003-2007 Dr. K. M. Gustavson	Home Meet Dr. Kris Therapies FAQs First Visit WCB ICBC Office Hours Fees Orthotics Newsletter Articles/Tips Massage Therapy Contact