Graston Technique for Upper Back Trigger Points - Your Burlington NC Chiropractor

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Dr. Andy Van Hoewyk, Chiropractic Physician with Cardinal Chiropractic and Sports Recovery in Burlington, NC. We believe that everyone should have a pain-free, active lifestyle.
Cardinal Chiropractic and Sports Recovery is located in Burlington NC. We specialize in evidence-based, conservative care for weekend warriors, dedicated athletes, and desk workers. We provide personalized care so that you can feel the relief that comes when you live with passion, not pain.
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Hello everyone, it's Dr. Andy. Today, I'm excited to share the Graston technique with you, an instrument-assisted soft tissue approach using a metal tool to address soft tissue issues. In a recent video, we explored how prolonged hours at a computer, leading to forward slouching, can create trigger points in our upper back.
Contrary to the notion that my ability to pinpoint problem areas quickly makes me unique, the truth is that we all share a common trigger point in the upper back. This discomfort arises from the strain caused by extended periods of sitting in front of a computer. The resulting tenderness manifests as a trigger point in the muscle belly.
To tackle this issue, we employ Graston tools to target and stimulate the body's healing process. Contrary to the misconception that we're breaking up soft tissue, we're triggering the body to initiate its healing mechanism. The Graston technique, alongside other soft tissue approaches like Dry needling, aims to enhance blood flow to the area.
Increased blood flow not only alleviates pain but also introduces growth hormones, collagen, and other healing proteins. To identify problem areas, we use a larger tool to scan the region. By feeling changes in texture, such as encountering grittiness or a sandpaper-like sensation, we pinpoint the areas that require attention.
Once identified, we use a treatment applicator to perform a star pattern, applying gentle pressure from various angles. This process may cause the skin to turn bright red, and in some cases, tiny red dots (petechiae) may appear, indicating the release of blood vessels. This is a positive sign, and once reached, it suggests it's time to move on to the next area.
Typically, it takes about one to two minutes per zone or area before observing these signs. The Graston technique is particularly effective for addressing the pain common in the upper back region. I hope you found this explanation helpful. Feel free to reach out with any questions, and always remember to live with passion, not pain.