Question
I noticed many bruises on my back after a week of treatments.  I do take aspirin daily and I know with some of the manipulations there will be some bruising.  My question is this... I didn't see the bruises until the end of the week and can't help but think that continuing to work the same areas, with bruises, is not a good thing.  Bruises hurt by themselves and with pressure are going to be really painful and not heal.  What is the thinking behind this?  I canceled my next appt. to let my bruises get a rest!!  Thanks, Becky

Answer
Becky,

If your DC is doing any deep massage, trigger point therapy, or other deep soft tissue therapy, there is the potential for bruising.  This is not necessarily bad, and in some instances may indicate scar tissue being freed up.   Instead of canceling your appointments, how about talking to your the doctor treating you?   With Graston Technique (www.grastontechnique.com) bruising is almost to be expected, especially on the first treatment session.  It's benign.  Working on the same bruised areas is not necessary, and your DC will likely do something different.

Hope this was helpful.

Dr. G