The typical course of treatment for lower back pain generally ranges from 1 to 10 visits over the course of several weeks. No medications are required in conjunction with this manual therapy.

See Manual Physical Therapy for Pain Relief

Patients undergoing therapy with the Graston Technique can expect the following:

Prior to Treatment

Illustration showing posterior torso with a heat pack in the lower back.

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A heat pack is applied to the lower back to warm the tissues before the massage.

Prior to an appointment with a chiropractor or another health practitioner, patients are advised to complete five minutes of cardiovascular activity, such as riding a stationary bike or walking on a treadmill.
At the clinician's office, ultrasound or heat treatment may first be applied to the injured area to warm up the soft tissue.

During Graston Treatment

The practitioner will utilize the appropriate Graston Technique instruments to scan, then treat, the affected area.
Treatment generally consists of the clinician rubbing the affected area(s) with the handheld stainless steel Graston Technique instruments, using very specific, calculated massage techniques.
Treatment time is usually 30 to 60 seconds per area treated.
It is common for patients to experience some discomfort during the procedure.

After Treatment

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Patients are advised they may be sore, bruised or exhibit small red dots over the area treated, called petechiae.
If any soreness is felt after the procedure, ice application for 15 to 20 minutes following the treatment may ease the discomfort.
It is recommended that an exercise, stretching, and strengthening program be used in conjunction with the Graston Technique to rehabilitate the back and help the injured tissues heal.

Anecdotally, many patients have reported increased range of motion and reduced pain after the first treatment.

Dr. Thomas Hyde is a chiropractor who retired with more than 30 years of experience treating spine pain and soft tissue disorders in athletes and active patients.