Introduction
More than 70% of women are affected with striae gravidarum or “pregnancy stretch” marks
frequently found on the abdomen, hips, buttocks and breasts following pregnancy1
. These stretch
marks tend to occur after 25 weeks gestation and may be due to genetic factors, endocrine
alterations and mechanical stretching of the skin1
.
Although the etiology of striae gravidarum is still unclear, it is thought that a loss of fibroblast
synthesis and connective tissue irregularity are major factors in the development
1
. Striae
gravidarum are typically linear bands that begin as erythematous to violaceous but fade
progressively to become skin colored or lighter2
.
Striae gravidarum is of great cosmetic concern for many women. There are many proposed
methods of prevention for striae gravidarum, including topical application of cocoa butter, olive oil,
aloe vera, or vitamin E. However, there are few available postpartum treatment options for striae
gravidarum and there is little or no evidence to show their consistent efficacy3,5
. Some postpartum
treatments include laser removal, topical tretinoin (Retin-A), oral tretinoin (Vesanoid), and
Mederma (topical, over the counter medication)5
.
Graston technique uses stainless steel instruments to perform soft tissue mobilization. Graston is
thought to remove scar tissue adhesions and increase proliferation of extracellular matrix
fibroblasts4
. As striae gravidarum is thought to be related to decreased fibroblast proliferation and
irregular connective tissue, it could be speculated that Graston technique applied to these
irregularities may reduce or remove them.
This research will investigate the efficacy of using Graston tools and technique to reduce or remove
post-gravid stretch marks in women.