Active Release Technique

Active Release Technique (ART) is proven to resolve headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow conditions; to name a few, quickly and permanently. These conditions are often a result of overused muscles.

At Athens Chiropractic Healthcare we offer the most effective treatments for these common injuries and complaints. Drs. Groft and Johnson are certified in ART.

Conditions most commonly relieved through ART treatments include:

ART is a patented, state-of-the-art soft tissue system/movement-based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. Additionally, we use physical therapies, such as; e-stim, ultrasound, cold laser therapy, taping, extremity adjustments, and prescriptive exercises focusing on strengthening, endurance, and joint proprioception.

What Is Active Release Technique (ART)?

ART is similar to deep tissue massage techniques and myofascial release (although it definitely has its differences) because it works by manipulating soft tissue, thereby reducing the stress placed on joints and nerves.

The conditions that ART is used to help treat naturally, often without the use of medications, are those that affect fascia (connective tissue), major muscle groups, tendons, and ligaments. Most are the result of overused muscles, which contribute to scar tissue formation, tears, pulls, strains and inflammation.

The goal of active release technique is to restore normal mobility and “glide” between muscle tissue and nerves. It can also help push joint fluid throughout the body and stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps lower inflammation.

What are some signs that you might be experiencing adhesion/scar tissue accumulation and therefore can benefit from ART?

These include:

stiffness in your neck, elbow, hands, knees or back, sometimes associated with bursitis or tendonitis
increased pain or throbbing when exercising
reduced flexibility and limited range of motion
loss of muscle strength
inflamed joints or frequent joint pains
signs of nerve damage, such as tingling, numbness, and weakness

How Active Release Technique Works

The core benefit of ART is preventing and breaking up dense scar tissue, also called adhesions. Adhesions limit the normal range of motion of joints and muscles because they cause abnormal binding between muscle groups, are very tough and are inflexible compared to healthy tissue.

The reason that adhesions form is to bind injured tissues and keep them stable — however, the adhesions act like a strong “glue” and can often compress or pinch nerves. Nerves sometimes become entrapped by scar tissue, which causes trigger points and pain to develop. The more that scar tissue forms, the more joints or tendons become strained and nerves become compressed.

Soft tissue manipulations address several components related to scar tissue formation:

Once the underlying tissue problem is addressed, patients are less likely to experience other injuries going forward and can return to regular preventative practices like exercising, stretching and performing myofascial release.

Active Release Technique