Active Release Technique - ART
What is Active Release Technique?
Active Release Technique (ART) is a hands-on soft-tissue therapy used to treat problems in muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. It focuses on finding and releasing tightness, adhesions, and scar tissue that can build up from overuse, injury, or repetitive motion.
During an ART session, the practitioner uses precise pressure combined with guided movement to break up these adhesions, improve blood flow, and restore proper tissue movement. It’s not a generic massage—it’s a targeted, results-driven treatment tailored to your unique needs.
How Does ART Work?
Assessment of the Problem Area: Identifies tight or restricted muscles and soft tissues
Targeted Pressure: Applies precise manual pressure to the problem area
Active Movement: Patient actively moves the body part during treatment
Adhesion and Scar Tissue: The technique helps separate and realign the fibers of muscles, fascia, and tendons, improving tissue elasticity and function.
Blood flow: Improves blood flow and nerve function
Movement: Restores measure improvement in flexibility, strength, and reduction in pain, ensuring the treatment is effective.
The benefits of ART
Restores Range of Motion: Quickly breaks up scar tissue (adhesions) that limits your flexibility and makes you feel "stiff."
Relieves Nerve Pain: Specifically designed to "un-trap" nerves, ending the numbness, tingling, and weakness associated with Sciatica and Carpal Tunnel.
Increases Strength: By removing internal friction, muscles can contract fully and more efficiently, leading to immediate improvements in power output.
Eliminates Chronic Pain: Targets "stubborn" pain in the neck, back, and heels (Plantar Fasciitis) that hasn't responded to traditional stretching or massage.
Fast-Acting Results: Many patients experience a significant "breakthrough" in their symptoms within just 3 to 6 sessions.
Prevents Future Injury: Keeps muscles and tendons moving smoothly, which stops micro-trauma from turning into a major tear.
Frequently Ask Questions
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Yes, Active Release Technique (ART) is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and certified practitioner.
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ART can feel intense or slightly uncomfortable, especially in tight or inflamed areas, but it should never be unbearable. Most people notice improved movement and reduced pain shortly after treatment.
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The number of sessions depends on:
Severity of the injury or restriction
Duration of the condition
Individual response to therapy
Some patients notice improvement in 1–3 sessions, while others may need more.
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Massage is generally passive and focuses on overall relaxation and blood flow but ART is a corrective medical protocol, it is movement-based and targets specific mechanical restrictions between muscles, tendons, and nerves.
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ART is often considered a wellness or elective treatment and is not typically covered by insurance. We can provide a receipt for possible reimbursement, depending on your plan.