What is the Graston Technique, and Why Do We Offer it at Bodhi Canmore?

If you’ve ever dealt with stubborn muscle tightness, nagging injuries, or general tension that just won’t go away, you’re not alone. At Bodhi Canmore, we’re always looking for effective, evidence-informed ways to help your body heal and perform its best. One of the tools we now offer is the Graston Technique, a specialized manual therapy that helps heal soft tissue injuries or chronic pain.

So, what exactly is the Graston Technique, and how can it help you feel better?

What Is the Graston Technique?

The Graston Technique is a type of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that uses smooth, stainless steel tools to gently break up scar tissue and loosen fascial restrictions in the body.

These tools provide more precision than hands alone, allowing your RMT to apply controlled pressure and movement directly to problem areas. When performed by a certified Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), the Graston Technique can boost circulation, reduce pain, improve mobility, and speed up healing.

It’s essential that Graston is performed by a properly trained, certified RMT, Bodhi Canmore RMT Cheryl Standing offers this technique. With over 20 years of experience across rehabilitation, chiropractic, and spa settings, Cheryl brings a wealth of knowledge to every session. Cheryl’s expertise ensures that Graston is applied safely and effectively, helping your body heal while reducing pain and improving range of motion.  Book your session with trusted Canmore RMT Cheryl, and experience the benefits firsthand.

What to Expect with Your Graston Technique Treatment Appointment at Bodhi Canmore 

Every treatment at Bodhi Canmore begins with a conversation. Your Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) will assess your needs, goals, and any current or past injuries to determine whether Graston is right for you. If so, it can be integrated into a therapeutic massage or booked as a full session focused solely on Graston work.

The treatment itself feels different from a traditional massage. Your RMT will use smooth stainless steel tools to gently glide over the skin, applying targeted pressure to tight areas. You may notice a mild scraping or brushing sensation, especially in spots where your body is holding tension. Many clients compare it to deep tissue work: focused, specific, and often deeply relieving.

After your session, it’s normal to feel some light soreness or redness in the treated area, similar to how you might feel after a deep tissue massage or a good workout. This is simply part of the body’s natural healing process and usually fades quickly.

You’ll also have full access to our spa amenities before and after your treatment, including the hot pool, eucalyptus steam room, and our refreshment station stocked with lemon water, teas, and healthy snacks, perfect for warming up your muscles or winding down post-treatment. Whether you're trying Graston for the first time or blending it with other therapeutic techniques, we’ll tailor your session to your comfort and recovery goals

What Is It Used For?

Graston is often used to treat conditions like:

• Tendinitis and tendinopathies (e.g., tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, Achilles issues)

• Scar tissue buildup from injury or surgery

• Chronic muscle tightness or knots

• Shin splints

• IT band syndrome

• Frozen shoulder

• Neck or back pain

Even if you’re not dealing with a specific injury, many active clients find Graston helpful for general recovery, especially after hiking, climbing, skiing, or strength training. To support your recovery and maintain peak performance, book your treatment with Cheryl, a skilled Canmore RMT at Bodhi Wellness.

Why We Offer It at Bodhi Canmore

We introduced the Graston Technique at Bodhi Canmore because it fits with our core approach: restore balance, reduce pain, and support long-term healing. It’s one of several hands-on techniques our experienced therapists may use as part of a customized treatment plan.

Many of our guests come to us looking for more than just relaxation, they want to move better, feel stronger, and recover faster. Graston technique gives us another tool to do just that, and it's available right here in Canmore! .

Is Graston Right for You?

If you’re dealing with persistent pain that rest hasn’t resolved, or limited mobility that’s

holding you back, Graston may be the next step. It’s especially effective for breaking cycles of tension, recurring injuries, or poor posture.

Our RMTs are trained to listen to your body and your story. Every session is tailored, so you’re never just getting a generic treatment. You're getting support that meets you where you are.

Book a Session at Bodhi Canmore

If you’re managing a persistent issue or want to recover faster after your latest adventure, Graston Technique can be a powerful tool in your wellness routine.

Book your treatment today with Cheryl today, a trusted Canmore RMT at Bodhi Wellness, and let us help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love.