Introduction
If you’re familiar with Graston Technique, you know it’s a widely used form of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) that helps to break down scar tissue, improve mobility, and aid recovery. But what many don’t realize is that Graston Technique is a brand name– not the modality itself. IASTM is the actual treatment approach, much like how Kleenex is often used to refer to tissues. While the terms have blurred over time, high-quality IASTM tools– like HawkGrips– deliver the same (or better) results.
An effective IASTM session requires more than just the right tools—it also depends on the emollient. The right IASTM emollient ensures smooth glide, reduces friction, and improves clinician control while keeping patients comfortable. You may have heard the term "Graston Cream" used to describe these emollients, but again, it’s not the only option. They may have been the first, but they’re not the only emollient in town.
HawkGrips Emollient is a best-selling, high-quality, and affordable alternative to traditional Graston Cream. It’s formulated for optimal glide, precise instrument control, and a better experience for both clinicians and patients.
This guide will break down what to look for in an IASTM emollient or Graston Cream, compare top options, and explain why HawkGrips Emollient could be the best choice for your treatments.
What to Look for in a High-Quality Emollient for Graston Technique Therapy
Choosing the right emollient directly impacts the effectiveness and comfort of IASTM treatment, or “Graston Technique.” Here’s what to consider:
Glide & Consistency: A good emollient should apply smoothly without being too greasy or too sticky, allowing precise instrument control without excessive slip or drag. HawkGrips Emollient is a high-quality alternative to traditional Graston Cream, delivering optimal glide without leaving behind residue.
Clinicians and patients notice the difference:
“Excellent non-greasy product. A little goes a long way, wipes off without leaving residue. Great value. The Occupational Hand Therapy Department at Mayo Clinic has used it for my hand and wrist therapy. I also use it for home therapy. I would recommend it 100%.” -L. Kohls
Ingredient Safety & Skin Sensitivity: Since emollients come into direct contact with both the patient’s skin and the clinician's hands daily, clean ingredients are a must. Avoiding parabens and harsh additives protects against irritation and supports long-term use. HawkGrips Emollient is formulated for safe, daily application– prioritizing both patient comfort and clinician well-being.
Scent & Customization: Some prefer a completely fragrance-free option, while others enjoy a light, pleasant aroma. HawkGrips offers both fragrance-free and vanilla-scented options, allowing you to choose exactly what you need. The vanilla scent is a favorite among athletes, with many comparing it to frosting!
Packaging & Convenience: Practical packaging matters for hygiene and efficiency. Single-use emollient packets provide clean, portion-controlled applications, making them ideal for travel, TSA compliance, and maintaining Joint Commission (JCO) hygiene standards. For frequent use in clinics, larger 8 oz jars offer a cost-effective, long-term solution.
To sum it up, HawkGrips Emollient delivers the ideal glide, safety, and convenience for IASTM therapy. But don’t just take our word for it:
“The HawkGrips Emollient provides excellent glide and lasts long without being greasy. The scented version smells great, often prompting patients to ask if they can eat it because it smells like frosting. It’s my go-to emollient for IASTM or general manual tissue work and leaves the skin feeling clean and smooth.” -Joseph F.
HawkGrips Emollient vs. Graston Cream: Key Differences
Choosing the right emollient for Graston Technique or any IASTM treatment means comparing your options. While Graston Cream has been widely used, HawkGrips Emollient offers several advantages worth considering:
- Better Value: Get premium quality at half the price per ounce of Graston Cream– without compromising performance.
- More Size Options: Unlike Graston Cream, which primarily comes in jars, HawkGrips offers both an 8 oz jar and the only single-use packets (7 mL) on the market— ideal for hospitals, travel, and TSA compliance.
- Customizable Scents: While Graston Cream has limited scent choices, HawkGrips Emollient is available in both fragrance-free and vanilla-scented options to suit clinician and patient preferences.
If you’re weighing your options for IASTM treatments, these key differences make HawkGrips Emollient a strong alternative to consider.
Choosing the Best Emollient for Your IASTM Treatments
The right emollient impacts both treatment effectiveness and clinician comfort. HawkGrips Emollient provides a smooth application, multiple size options, and a cost-effective alternative for IASTM and Graston Technique.
Clinicians appreciate the difference:
"This is a great emollient. It applies nicely and absorbs well. It doesn't leave a greasy or sticky feeling after either. I also enjoy that it comes in individual packets, and the vanilla scent smells like ice cream. Overall, this is a great value." -Dr. Danielle Ward
For enhanced results, pair it with HawkGrips IASTM tools– engineered for superior glide, control, and reduced hand strain.
If you're seeking a reliable alternative to Graston Cream, HawkGrips Emollient delivers the comfort, convenience, and performance you need to treat patients effectively.