Active Release Technique

Active Release Technique (ART) is a type of soft tissue therapy that is commonly used by chiropractors to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. This technique is based on the idea that many of the conditions that cause pain and discomfort in the body are related to problems in the soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. In this post, we will explore what Active Release Technique is, how chiropractors use it, and its benefits.

What is Active Release Technique?

Active Release Technique was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Michael Leahy, a chiropractor who was looking for a way to help his patients recover from injuries more quickly. ART is a type of soft tissue mobilization therapy that involves the use of specific hand movements to manipulate the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

The goal of ART is to break up adhesions and scar tissue in the soft tissues, which can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. By breaking up these adhesions, chiropractors can help to restore proper function to the affected area and reduce pain and discomfort.

How Chiropractors Use Active Release Technique

When a patient comes in for an ART session, the chiropractor will first assess the patient’s condition and determine which areas of the body need to be treated. The patient will then lie down on a treatment table, and the chiropractor will use specific hand movements to manipulate the soft tissues in the affected area.

During the treatment, the chiropractor will apply pressure to the affected area and move the tissue through a range of motion. This can be uncomfortable at times, but it is usually not painful. The treatment typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and patients may require several sessions depending on the severity of their condition.

Benefits of Active Release Technique

Active Release Technique can provide a number of benefits for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. These benefits include:

1. Reduced Pain - By breaking up adhesions and scar tissue in the soft tissues, ART can help to reduce pain and discomfort in the affected area.
2. Improved Range of Motion - Patients who undergo ART may experience improved range of motion and flexibility as a result of the treatment.
3. Faster Healing - By stimulating the body’s natural healing response, ART can help to speed up the healing process for soft tissue injuries.
4. Non-Invasive - Unlike some other treatment options, ART is non-invasive and does not require any medication or surgery.
5. Improved Function - Patients who undergo ART may experience improved function in the affected area, which can help them to perform daily activities with greater ease.

Active Release Technique is a type of soft tissue mobilization therapy that can provide a number of benefits for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. By using specific hand movements to manipulate the soft tissues of the body, chiropractors can help to reduce pain, improve range of motion, speed up healing, and improve function in their patients. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your muscles or joints, consider talking to a chiropractor about whether Active Release Technique may be a good option for you.