ACTIVE RELEASE THERAPY
WHAT IS ACTIVE RELEASE THERAPY?
Active Release Therapy (ART), also called Active Release Technique, is a non-invasive manual therapy technique that works to correct soft tissue restrictions that cause pain and mobility issues. The technique can be applied to both acute and chronic conditions involving the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and fascia. The goal is to break down scar tissue and adhesions in order to optimize function in the body.
ART® is used to treat symptoms with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves in order to:
- Restore free and unimpeded motion of all soft tissues
- Release entrapped nerves, vasculature and lymphatics
- Re-establish optimal texture, resilience and function of soft tissues
ART is ideal for individuals with conditions related to overworked muscles. However, ART can also be used on individuals with acute trauma (i.e. tears, sprains), chronic trauma (i.e. lower back pain), cumulative or overuse traumas (i.e. repetitive strain injuries, tendonitis) and post-operative cases.
ART® has been shown to be effective in treating the following conditions:
- Sports Injuries
- Neck Pain
- Hamstring Strains
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Tennis Elbow
- Trigger Finger
- Hip Pain
- Shoulder Injuries
- Knee Pain
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica
- Plantar fasciitis
- Headaches and migraines
- Shin splints
- Tendinitis
- Post-operative scarring and adhesions
HOW IS IT DIFFERENT THAN OTHER SOFT TISSUE TECHNIQUES?
Other soft tissue techniques that are used in treatments like massage, physiotherapy and chiropractor also focus on this concept of release, however, ART has a unique approach as it involves over 500 specific manual therapy techniques that practitioners learn to assess and treat restrictions in soft tissue.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is certified to provide ART®?
ART® certified providers include chiropractors, physiotherapists, and registered massage therapists.
Does it hurt?
Some movements your provider asks you to perform may cause discomfort. Tell your practitioner if the discomfort becomes painful so that the treatment may be modified.
How many appointments do I need?
The number of appointments will depend on the condition and severity of the injury.