Active Release Technique (ART)

Active Release Technique (ART) is a movement-based massage technique that has been shown to be effective at reducing pain from strains, sprains, and overuse conditions such as tendinopathy.

ART is performed by professionals who have undergone extensive training and have superior knowledge of human anatomy. This technique stands out from other types of massage in that it has an active component.

What can I expect?
After learning from you about your injury or pain, you will be assessed through hands on palpation which involves looking for abnormalities in tissue texture, movement and function. This allows your therapist to find what specific tissue or movement reproduces your discomfort and is the source of your pain. Specific protocols are then used along with very specific tensioning of the tissue based on the anatomy to affect the tissue.

What is happening to the Tissue?
Through the hands on assessment abnormalities in tissue are found. Abnormalities may include scar tissue or adhesions which creates a lack of oxygen flow to the tendon/muscle/tissue. Lack of oxygen can create poor movement and function of the tissue. Adhesions may also cause nerves to become pinched. ART is used to eliminate and prevent these adhesions from causing impairments to the soft tissue.

ART is used in conjunction with other hands on techniques and with specific exercises to retrain soft tissue to function appropriately and return you to your normal activities or sports.

ART is good for: Patellar and Achilles tendinopathy, muscle strains (quad, hamstring etc), plantar fasciitis, sciatica, IT band syndrome, shin splints, and more!

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