Graston therapy or Instrument-Assisted Soft Tssue Mechnotherapy (IASTM) can be described as “a skilled intervention that includes the use of specialized tools to manipulate the skin, myofascia, muscles, and tendons by various direct compressive stroke techniques**”.

The Graston tools allows for a unique mechanical force to be applied to the tissues to achieve a positive physiological response which includes:

• Increased blood perfusion to the affected area.

• Increased stem cell to the affected area.

• Increased fibroblastic activity. Fobroblast cells help reduce inflammation and is the principle cell in creating new connective tissue.

• Improves tissue slide and glide which decreases inflammation.

• Reduces scar tissue formation.

• helps desensitize hyper irritable surface nerves.

• Improves musculoskeletal function.

**Cheatham SW, Baker R, Kreiswirth E. Instrument assisted soft-tissue mobilization: A commentary on clinical practice guidelines for rehabilitation professionals. International journal of sports physical therapy. 2019 Jul;14(4):670.