Active Release Technique

One of the most effective hands-on treatments of musculoskeletal pain is the Active Release Technique (ART). It’s a state-of-the-art soft tissue movement-based massage technique designed to treat problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. This treatment is highly beneficial for athletes and non-athletes alike.

Among the many conditions that can be treated with ART are:

What all of these conditions have in common is that they are often the result of overused muscles and other soft tissue. This occurs either with acute conditions, such as pulls, tears and collision; an accumulation of small tears; or due to a lack of oxygen.

Any of these factors can cause your body to develop scar tissue in the affected area, preventing other tissues to move freely. If scar tissue builds up, your muscles will become shorter and weaker. Also, tension on your tendons can lead to tendinitis, and nerves can become trapped, resulting in pain, loss of strength, and reduced range of motion.

ART Treatment

An ART session involves both an examination and treatment. Using their hands, your doctor will first evaluate the texture, tightness and movement of your muscles, tendons, fascia, ligaments, and nerves. Once abnormal tissues are detected, they will be treated by combining precisely directed tension and specific movements. There are over 500 specific moves that are unique to the Active Release Technique, allowing your provider to identify and treat your specific muscular problems.