Fluid Motion Soft Tissue (FMST)
Graston Technique® was an innovative, evidence-based form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization that enabled clinicians to effectively break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. The technique utilizes specially designed stainless steel instruments to detect and effectively treat areas exhibiting soft tissue fibrosis or chronic inflammation. Once the Graston tools went off of their patent, many practitioners came forth with their ideas for new and improved tools. Dr. Jerad Bludorn developed the FMST tools.
Fluid Motion Soft Tissue Tools are very effective in breaking down scar tissue and restrictions within the soft tissue which may have developed as a result of trauma, surgery, immobilization, repeated strain or other mechanisms, allowing full functional restoration to occur.
The design of the two tools enables treatment over all surfaces of the body quickly and easily. The special material designed for the tools is a composite metal injected plastic which has a higher weight than aluminum and slightly lighter than steel.
This special material allows the tools to be dense enough to mobilize adhesions and scar tissue with ease requiring no extra pressure on the tissue, allowing a better experience for the patient.
The Fluid Motion Soft Tissue Tools can be utilized with many other manual techniques including myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, cross friction, manual therapy, and trigger point therapy.
The FMST tools are the tools that take myofascial manipulation and mobilization to the next level.
Images of the Fluid Motion Soft Tissue Tools: The larger tool is used for mid-back,
lower back and leg treatments. The smaller tool is used to treat the shoulder, neck, arms, hands and feet.
Commonly treated conditions:
- Joint sprains and Muscle strains
- Post surgical scars that restrict joint ROM
- Painful tissue from Whiplash-associated disorders, ex. Neck pain with decreased ROM
- Joint stiffness after immobilization/casting
- Chronic tendonitis, Nerve compression/crush syndromes, Tenosynovitis, Trigger fingers, and Tunnel syndromes
- Any raised scar tissue with multiple keloids