The Graston Technique is a form of manual therapy that utilizes specialized instruments to help break down scar tissue in the body. By using these instruments to apply pressure and friction to the affected area, the technique can help to realign collagen fibers and promote the healing process. This can lead to improved range of motion, reduced pain, and increased functionality in the affected area.
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the heel and bottom of the foot. The Graston Technique can be an effective treatment option for plantar fasciitis as it helps to break down adhesions and scar tissue in the plantar fascia. By using the instruments to target the affected area, the technique can help to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and promote healing in the foot.
We’ve documented, as have numerous journals, the latest being The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, that editorial boards, surgeon society boards and, indeed, the membership of most orthopedic and surgeon societies do not match the gender, ethnic or racial characteristics of the patient populations they serve.
Posted by on 2024-04-02
Gwo-Chin Lee, M.D., FAAOS is the new editor-in-chief of the Journal of the AAOS Global Research & Reviews.
Posted by on 2024-04-02
Gary Michelson, M.D., one of the pioneering inventors and surgeons whose career spans the breadth of modern orthopaedics writes passionately in this guest editorial about improving research funding and data sharing.
Posted by on 2024-03-21
What does freedom look like? For millions who’ve lost or never had the freedom to roam on their own power, freedom may well be this first-of-its-kind 32 lbs. of stainless steel. The Freedom to Roam, a walker-like device, was created by Robert “Lewy” Lewis, a self-made entrepreneur and incomplete quadriplegic.
Posted by on 2024-03-20
When it comes to tendonitis, the Graston Technique can offer several benefits. By using the instruments to target the affected tendon, the technique can help to break down scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote blood flow to the area. This can help to speed up the healing process, reduce pain, and improve overall function in the affected tendon.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist. The Graston Technique can be effective for treating carpal tunnel syndrome by targeting the affected area and breaking down scar tissue and adhesions that may be contributing to the compression of the nerve. This can help to reduce pain, improve nerve function, and promote healing in the wrist.
Muscle strains and sprains can be painful and limit mobility in the affected area. The Graston Technique can help with muscle strains and sprains by targeting the injured muscle tissue and breaking down scar tissue and adhesions. This can help to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and promote healing in the muscle, allowing for a quicker recovery and return to normal activities.
Adhesions in the fascia can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the body. The Graston Technique can be used to address adhesions in the fascia by targeting the affected area with the instruments and breaking down scar tissue. This can help to improve flexibility, reduce pain, and restore normal movement patterns in the body.
The Graston Technique can help improve range of motion in a variety of conditions, including but not limited to frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, and IT band syndrome. By targeting the affected area with the instruments and breaking down scar tissue and adhesions, the technique can help to restore normal movement patterns, reduce pain, and improve overall function in the body. This can lead to improved quality of life and increased mobility for individuals suffering from these conditions.
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) differs from traditional stretching in rehabilitation by incorporating techniques such as contract-relax and hold-relax to enhance flexibility and range of motion. PNF involves activating specific muscle groups through isometric contractions followed by passive stretching, which helps improve muscle length and joint mobility. In contrast, traditional stretching typically involves static or dynamic stretching exercises without the use of resistance or neuromuscular facilitation techniques. PNF also focuses on stimulating proprioceptors in the muscles and joints to improve body awareness and motor control, making it a more comprehensive approach to rehabilitation compared to traditional stretching methods. Additionally, PNF can help address muscle imbalances, enhance muscle coordination, and improve overall functional performance in individuals recovering from injuries or seeking to improve their physical capabilities.
Athletes with chronic exertional compartment syndrome face several challenges in rehabilitation, including managing pain, improving muscle strength, restoring range of motion, and preventing further injury. These individuals may struggle with adhering to a structured rehabilitation program, dealing with frustration over limitations in physical activity, and overcoming psychological barriers related to their condition. Additionally, addressing biomechanical imbalances, optimizing training techniques, and implementing proper recovery strategies are crucial aspects of rehabilitation for athletes with chronic exertional compartment syndrome. It is essential for healthcare professionals to tailor rehabilitation plans to the specific needs and goals of each athlete, considering factors such as sport-specific demands, individual biomechanics, and previous injury history. By addressing these challenges comprehensively, athletes with chronic exertional compartment syndrome can work towards returning to their sport safely and effectively.
After a wrist fracture, it is important to focus on exercises that can help improve grip strength. Some specific exercises that can be beneficial include wrist curls, finger curls, grip squeezes, and forearm pronation and supination exercises. These exercises target the muscles in the wrist, hand, and forearm, helping to increase strength and flexibility. Additionally, using hand grippers, therapy putty, or resistance bands can also aid in improving grip strength. It is important to start with light resistance and gradually increase as strength improves to avoid further injury. Consistency and proper form are key in effectively strengthening the grip after a wrist fracture.
When designing a rehabilitation program for individuals with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), several key considerations must be taken into account. These include addressing the multifaceted nature of CRPS, incorporating a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists, tailoring the program to the specific needs and goals of the individual, focusing on pain management strategies such as graded motor imagery, mirror therapy, and desensitization techniques, promoting functional restoration through graded exercise programs and activity modification, providing education and support to help individuals better understand and cope with their condition, and monitoring progress closely to make necessary adjustments to the program. By addressing these considerations, a comprehensive and effective rehabilitation program can be developed to help individuals with CRPS improve their function and quality of life.
Individuals with adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, may benefit from a combination of rehabilitation strategies to improve range of motion and reduce pain. Physical therapy exercises focusing on stretching and strengthening the shoulder muscles can help increase flexibility and mobility in the joint. Modalities such as heat therapy, cold therapy, and ultrasound may also be used to alleviate pain and inflammation. Manual therapy techniques, including joint mobilizations and soft tissue massage, can help break up adhesions and improve joint function. Additionally, patient education on proper posture and ergonomics, as well as home exercise programs, can support long-term recovery and prevent future flare-ups of frozen shoulder. Overall, a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition is essential for successful rehabilitation in individuals with adhesive capsulitis.
When designing a rehabilitation program for runners with shin splints, several key considerations must be taken into account. These include addressing the underlying causes of the shin splints, such as overpronation, muscle imbalances, or improper running technique. The program should focus on strengthening the muscles in the lower leg, particularly the tibialis anterior and posterior, as well as the calf muscles. Additionally, flexibility exercises for the calf, hamstring, and hip muscles can help improve overall biomechanics and reduce strain on the shins. Gradual progression in running volume and intensity is crucial to prevent re-injury, along with proper footwear and running surface selection. It is also important to incorporate rest and recovery days into the program to allow the body to heal and adapt to the training stimulus. Regular monitoring of symptoms and adjustments to the program as needed are essential for successful rehabilitation of shin splints in runners.