Essential Self-Paced Online Training
Course Overview
Graston Technique (GT) therapy is an advanced form of instrument-assisted, soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), which incorporates the use of six specially designed stainless steel instruments. GT therapy enables clinicians to effectively treat the adverse effects of scar tissue and fascial restrictions as well as improve and maintain optimal range of motion. The purpose of this basic training is to introduce students and clinicians to GT therapy, its clinical applications, physiological effects/benefits, and potential contraindication.
At the end of this course you will be able to:
Demonstrate a working knowledge of the Graston instruments, GT treatments, potential effects, and benefits
Identify and discuss the indications, contraindications (relative and absolute)
Review and develop a better understanding of soft tissue injury healing and potential reactivity to instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (therapeutic and adverse)
Develop skill and competence in the GT application of IASTM to the major regions of soft tissue
Course Instructors
Jacqueline Shakar DPT, PT, GTS
Jackie has maintained a clinical practice in musculoskeletal physical therapy for more than 30 years, specializing in manual therapy and lower extremity biomechanics, including custom foot orthotics. She is a professor at Mount Wachusett Community College, where she has taught anatomy, kinesiology, clinical orthopedics and evidence-based practice/clinical research for more than 20 years. Jackie is an avid runner and works with a number of elite and recreational runners and triathletes. She also works with high school and college athletes. She has been a GT instructor since 2007. Jackie is also the clinical advisor for Graston Technique®. She completed a transitional Doctoral Degree at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in 2010. Jackie became board-certified as a clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties in 2011. She earned a master's degree in physical therapy from Boston University in 1983. She has been an Athletic Trainer since 1984, and she received a certificate in massage therapy from the Bancroft School of Massage Therapy in 2001.
Mike Ploski ATC, PT, GTS
Mike maintains a clinical practice at a rehabilitation company with four sites in the Indianapolis area and is a guest instructor in orthopedic manual therapy at the University of Indianapolis. He was a clinic director in Indianapolis for 12 years for a national rehabilitation company. Prior to that, he was a Physical Therapist/Athletic Trainer for the PGA Tour and the CART racing league. Mike has been a GT-trained clinician since 1996 and a GT instructor since 1998. He joined Graston Technique, LLC in 2013 and now serves as Clinical Advisor. He works in close collaboration with the faculty members who teach Graston Technique in the curriculum of advanced degree programs in physical therapy and athletic training and represents GT at national conferences. Mike received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wabash College in 1984 and a Master of Education degree with a major in exercise physiology from Temple University in 1986. He earned a Master of Science degree from the Krannert School of Physical Therapy at the University of Indianapolis in 1988. He has been a certified Athletic Trainer since 1985 and board certified in orthopedics since 1998.
