Active Release Techniques®

Active Release Techniques (ART)® soft tissue management system is so different that it has been granted a medical patent. Each professional ART® provider must complete extensive hands-on instruction and written/practical testing unmatched by other soft tissue programs. An ART® provider is trained to palpate and treat more than 300 muscular and fascial injuries and over 100 nerve entrapments, which often cause numbness and tingling.

Since ART® providers are qualified to assess and treat over 400 structures, we see a broad range of injuries and conditions. ART® is successful for professional and amateur athletes, people injured in auto accidents or at work, and people who just work hard and are hurt.

Soft tissue conditions often do not show up in radiographic studies. When soft tissue has been injured or is chronically tight, it forms scar tissue. While necessary for healing, scar tissue may adhere to adjacent structures, restricting the range of motion and causing compression over nerves or blood vessels. This condition alters the texture of soft tissue, which an experienced ART® provider can palpate, assess and treat.

Certified ART® providers are trained to palpate specific soft tissue conditions. ART® providers have specific training in releasing soft tissue restrictions and nerve entrapment.

Symptoms reported by patients vary from aches and pains, to burning muscles, to numbness and tingling. Improvements in mobility and range of motion occur quickly, often within one or two treatments. Symptoms typically recede as mobility is restored.

Active Release Techniques®, as the name implies, uses active motion to fix the problem. Once the injury has been assessed, the provider uses hands-on treatment and patient motion to “release” the problem area, restoring mobility and reducing symptoms. Treatment duration and frequency may vary depending on the severity and complexity of the injury. However, most patients experience rapid recovery.

Learn more about ART® at www.activerelease.com.