Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Soft Tissue
How is scar tissue different from other tissue?
When viewed under a microscope, normal tissue might look like dense, regular elongated fibers running in the same direction, such as tendons and ligaments, or it might appear dense, irregular and loose with fibers running in multiple directions. In either case, when tissue is damaged, it heals in a haphazard pattern-known as scarring--that results in a restricted range of motion and often, pain.
Why is scar tissue a problem?
Scar tissue limits range of motion, and in many instances causes pain, which prevents the patient from functioning as he or she did before the injury.
FAQs About Soft Tissue Treatment
In addition to Chiropractic manipulation, what techniques does Dr. Bruce use to reduce pain and improve athletic performance?
Dr. Bruce uses techniques similar to Graston Technique® and Active Release Technique to detect and treat scar tissue.
What are Active Release Techniques?
ART treatment protocols are performed by manually manipulating soft tissue structures in such a way that they will return to their normal moving relationship to one another. Dr. Bruce has an indepth understanding of how these structures move in relationship to one another, and manually releases these adhesions and scar tissues, allowing for more normal movement of the whole system.
What is the Graston® Technique?
The Graston Technique® incorporates a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and restrictions that affect normal function.
With the help of the instruments, this technique separates and breaks down collagen cross-links, and splays and stretches connective tissue and muscle fibers. It increases skin temperature and facilitates reflex changes in the chronic muscle holding pattern. The Graston® Technique also:
- Alters spinal reflux activity (facilitated segment)
- Increases the rate and amount of blood flow to and from the area
- Increases cellular activity in the region, including fibroblasts and mast cells
- Increases histamine response secondary to mast cell activity
Dr. Bruce has been throoughly trained on te Graston® Technique, but he uses more advanced ceramic tools than those used in Graston Technique.
How are the instruments used?
The ceramic instruments enhance the clinician's ability to detect adhesions, scar tissue or restrictions in the affected areas. Dr. Bruce uses the ceramic instruments to comb over and "catch" on fibrotic tissue, which immediately identifies the areas of restriction. Once the tissue has been identified, the instruments are used to break up the scar tissue so it can be absorbed by the body.
Is the treatment painful?
It is common to experience minor discomfort during treatment, and some bruising afterwards. This is a normal response and part of the healing process.
What is the frequency of treatment?
Patients usually receive two treatments per week over four or five weeks.
How soon will I feel better?
In the majority of cases, the patient sees improvement in 3 to 4 treatments. However, some patients see positive change after the first visit. The "average" length of treatment for any given condition is six to ten visits.
