Scraping is a physical therapy technique that stimulates healing using blunt tools to break down scar tissue, loosen tight tissues, and increase circulation. At Dallas Orthopedic and Shoulder Institute in Sunnyvale and Kaufman, Texas, the team performs scraping carefully to help you heal more quickly from soft tissue injuries. Call Dallas Orthopedic and Shoulder Institute or schedule an appointment online to learn more about scraping today.
Scraping is a physical therapy technique not unlike other strategies like massage therapy and cupping in that it increases healing while reducing pain. You can enjoy various additional benefits from scraping, such as the breakdown of scar tissue and adhesions. You might also notice an increased range of motion of muscles you target with scraping.
During scraping therapy, also called instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, the team uses a flat tool to gently scrape over your soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, muscles, and fascia. This process draws oxygenated blood to the region, which helps with healing.
Using scraping within a personalized, comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation plan can reduce your need for anti-inflammatory medications while improving your recovery.
Scraping can accelerate the healing of many common musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, particularly those that cause pain or discomfort and stiffness. Soft tissue injuries and conditions that might benefit from scraping include:
When you first visit Dallas Orthopedic and Shoulder Institute, the team conducts a brief physical exam and evaluation. After identifying any existing injuries or painful areas, they can tell you if scraping fits within your personalized care plan. They might recommend scraping alongside techniques like soft tissue massage or dry needling.
The team has intensive training in scraping and can perform the procedure safely. You might experience some mild discomfort from the pressure and friction of scraping, but you won’t be in any pain or require anesthesia.
The team places pressure on an instrument and glides it across your skin in the targeted region. This causes microtrauma in the tissues under your skin while also breaking down scar tissue. The team can adjust the amount of pressure they place on the instrument based on the depth of your injury.
You might experience some mild soreness in the days after your scraping service. Some people experience bruising too, but when this occurs, it diminishes within 24-48 hours.
Call Dallas Orthopedic and Shoulder Institute or book an appointment online to find out if you can benefit from scraping and other forms of physical therapy today.