Active Release Technique

By Dr. Travis Elliott DC | January 28, 2014

Active release technique is a massage technique that focuses on soft tissue system/movement. It is used to treat problems related to muscle, ligament, tendon, fascia, and nerves. Most symptoms that ART is used to treat are the result of overuse of particular muscles, such conditions include:

  • headaches
  • back pain
  • carpal tunnel syndrome
  • shoulder pain
  • sciatica
  • plantar fasciitis
  • shin splints
  • knee problems
  • tennis elbow
  • and much more

Overused muscles often result in pulls and tears in muscle tissue. Often the result can be an accumulation of many small tears that cause pain symptoms. It also inhibits the flow of adequate oxygen to your muscles. All of these factors can result in the production of rough scar tissue on the affected area which causes the muscles to become shorter and weaker, reducing the range of motion and strength of that muscle. Numbness and tingling may also be felt in the affected area if this occurs. 

ART sessions involve both examination and treatment. While the doctor uses their hands to massage the patient’s muscles, they are simultaneously evaluating the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves in that area. Specific application of tension and movement are applied to treat abnormal muscles. Over 500 specific, unique, and actually patented movements are utilized by providers of ART to identify and correct specific problems for each individual patient.

ART was developed, refined, and patented by P. Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP. He now teaches and certifies ART to health care providers all over the world.

 

Posted in Chiropractic Articles