GTS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield GTS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What should be done before an IASTM session? → Warm up the tissue
2. A cancer survivor in remission with lymphedema of the arm requests Graston treatment. What is the best course of action? → Consult with the physician and avoid treating the lymphedematous area without clearance
3. What is the role of clinical guidelines in EBP? → They provide standardized, evidence-based recommendations
4. A patient who has done their home program for over 6 months is in which Transtheoretical stage? → Maintenance
5. Which part of the subjective history is most useful for choosing between GT and immediate referral? → Red-flag symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, night pain, or fever
6. What is the primary function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in connective tissue? → Providing structural support and facilitating cell communication
7. How long does a typical Graston session last? → 10 to 15 minutes
8. When facing an unfamiliar challenge in exercise physiology & kinesiology within Graston Technique Specialist, what is the BEST approach? → Research established best practices, consult colleagues, and document the approach
9. What is the PRIMARY objective of nutrition & dietary guidance within the Graston Technique Specialist profession? → To ensure quality outcomes through standardized practices and continuous improvement
10. What is an example of a patient-centered approach? → Considering patient values in care plans
11. In the Graston protocol, what is the main purpose of the warm-up before instrument treatment? → To raise tissue temperature and circulation, preparing tissue for treatment
12. How does the practitioner detect areas of soft tissue restriction? → By feeling resistance through instruments
13. Which method is commonly used to assess joint mobility? → Range of motion testing
14. Patients often skip their home program because it is too long. What is the best coaching adjustment? → Narrow the program to the 2-3 most important exercises
15. Which skin condition in the treatment area is a contraindication to Graston Technique? → Active contagious skin infection
16. Which finding in a patient with diabetes most requires modification of Graston treatment to the lower extremity? → Peripheral neuropathy with reduced sensation
17. What is a SOAP note used for? → To document clinical encounters
18. In a typical GT treatment plan, how are sessions usually spaced for a chronic condition? → About once or twice a week, allowing recovery between sessions
19. What is the PRIMARY benefit of documenting motivational techniques & coaching in Graston Technique Specialist? → Creating a reference for quality assurance, training, and continuous improvement
20. Which anatomical structure is most commonly treated with Graston Technique for plantar fasciitis? → Plantar aponeurosis and intrinsic foot musculature
21. Which metric is commonly used to measure patient safety? → Hospital-acquired infections rate
22. What is the minimum recommended training credential for clinicians to use Graston Technique in the United States? → Attending an accredited GT Foundations or M1 course
23. In the context of soft tissue pathology, what does the term 'adhesion' refer to? → Abnormal fibrous connections between adjacent tissue layers
24. What is the MOST effective way to stay current with developments in exercise physiology & kinesiology for Graston Technique Specialist? → Participating in professional development, industry events, and peer collaboration
25. A patient with fibromyalgia has widespread tenderness. Which Graston strategy is most appropriate? → Begin with very light pressure and short sessions, progressing based on tolerance
26. A patient presents with an area of active myositis ossificans in the thigh. What is the appropriate action? → Do not treat over the affected area
27. Which of the following is generally a contraindication to Graston Technique? → Thrombophlebitis
28. What is the recommended treatment frequency for most acute soft tissue conditions using Graston Technique? → 2–3 times per week with rest days between sessions
29. Self-efficacy, a major predictor of rehab adherence, comes from which theory? → Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory
30. A patient with rheumatoid arthritis is experiencing an acute flare with a hot, swollen wrist. What is the best decision? → Avoid treating the inflamed joint during the acute flare