LOS ALTOS, Calif., March 15, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bay Area chiropractor Dr. Mary Reimer is using a new advancement in soft tissue treatment to manage pain without the need for medication. This drug-free treatment, known as the Graston Technique, is an evidence-based form of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, according to Dr. Reimer. The chiropractor says that many of the causes of spinal misalignment injuries also trigger soft tissue injuries. Consequently, Dr. Reimer says that the Graston Technique is a natural complement to chiropractic adjustments for enhanced pain management.
Individuals with soft tissue injuries, including overuse injuries and repetitive strain injuries, may benefit from a new soft tissue injury treatment called the Graston Technique. One of the certified practitioners is Bay Area chiropractor Dr. Mary Reimer.
"The Graston Technique separates and breaks down scar tissue that can inhibit tissue mobility and exacerbate pain," said Dr. Reimer. "This helps to bring a fuller range of mobility back to the body following an injury. I frequently recommend the Graston Technique for treating injuries like rotator cuff tendonitis, tennis elbow, knee pain, ankle pain and muscle spasms."
During a Graston Technique treatment session, the practitioner will use stainless steel instruments to detect adhesions in the muscles. The instruments are coated in a special emollient cream (Graston Cream) that allows the instruments to glide smoothly over the body. Using the specialized Graston stroking technique, Dr. Reimer can feel the presence of underlying scar tissue. Once spots of scar tissue are identified, the chiropractor will use the instruments to break up the adhesions.
"Scar tissue has a lumpier, more haphazard structure when compared with the long regular grain of normal tissue fibers," said Dr. Reimer. "When I run an instrument over a patient's shoulder, for example, the instrument 'catches' where the scar tissue exists. I can then use the instrument to break up the scar tissue. This brings mobility back to the injured area."
Los Altos chiropractor Dr. Reimer says that the Graston Technique is especially effective for treating chronic pain associated with soft tissue injuries that have not responded to other treatment techniques. While a certain amount of discomfort is associated with initial treatment, in the long run, Dr. Reimer says that overall pain is significantly reduced.
"While the Graston Technique is a relatively new treatment method, it is already enjoying a 75 to 90 percent success rate when performed by a trained practitioner," said Dr. Reimer. "A typical course of treatment may last for up to five weeks. Over this period, I can see a marked increase in a patient's overall mobility and a decrease in their pain."
Reimer Wellness Center is a Los Altos chiropractic center providing non-invasive pain management, injury rehabilitation, orthotics, pediatric and prenatal care, massage therapy, and wellness services. To learn more about these treatments, including the Graston Technique, visit drreimer.com.