Active Release Technique (ART) is a specialized muscle therapy technique that uses movement to treat problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and nerves. ART attributes common painful conditions to being the result of overused muscles. Muscle overuse then results in dense scar tissue (fibrosis/adhesions) or trigger points in the affected area that impairs movement, weakens muscles, strains tendons, and traps nerves. With ART, directed tension is combined with movement in order to break down scar tissue and promote healing.
Did You Know?
ART offers a variety of benefits to patients, including:
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- Relief of tension headaches
- Decreased lower back pain
- Improved chronic neck pain
- Improved sciatic symptoms
- Manages symptoms from carpal tunnel, plantar fasciitis, shin splints & tennis elbow
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Active Release Technique right for me?
ART may be right for you if you suffer from painful conditions such as headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, sciatica, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, shoulder pain, iliotibial band syndrome, tennis elbow, and knee pain. Additionally, ART may also be beneficial if you have had a past soft tissue injury or if you have undiagnosed soft tissue pain.
What can I expect during an ART appointment?
During an ART appointment, your doctor will first discuss your concerns and determine the location of your pain. Then they will use their hands to feel the affected area in order to locate excess fibrous tissue or trigger points that may be responsible for this pain. Once located, they will apply direct pressure to the area and then ask you to complete a specific movement that elongates the tissues.
How many ART sessions do I need?
The amount of ART sessions you need will depend upon the type and extent of your pain. Many patients find relief in as little as one session, however, multiple sessions may be recommended to obtain or maintain results.