If you’ve come to this blog post looking to gather more information about a Physical Therapy to help manage pain, then we believe you’ll look no further. One type of physical therapy we specialize in at Pain and Performance Solutions, is Active Release Technique (ART). For many reasons, Active Release Technique can be your way back to a healthier mind and body.
What is Active Release Technique or ART®?
When you think of a healthy body or the healthy movements of our bodies, you should think that our bodies are in it’s correct alignment state with our muscles, tendons, bones and tissues flowing freely without obstructions. Our everyday lives though, dictate the health of our bodies. Over time and regular ‘wear’ and ‘tear’ our bodies become more and more susceptible to injury or pain. That can lead to injuries that can cause scar tissue and constant pain.
So, what is Active Release Technique? ART® works by breaking up adhered and unhealthy tissues in the body. When muscles are exposed to an unusual amount of stress the body attempts to reinforce the muscle through increasing tension and laying down collagen fibers. While these collagen fibers and tension help adapt the body to the specific stress it is being exposed to (typing at a keyboard all day for example) these adaptations may prevent proper tissue movement (resulting in carpal tunnel symptoms). Through a combination of pressure and tension by the practitioner and movement (usually active) on the part of the client, these collagen fibers and scar tissue are broken up – restoring normal range of motion and blood flow – restoring pain free movement, endurance, and strength.
How can ART® Help?
Our bodies work differently, so there are a vast number of ailments that ART® can help with. For example, some of the problems that Active Release Technique treatments can help with are:
- Lower back pain
- Shin splints
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tension headaches
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Shoulder strains, including frozen shoulder
- Bursitis
- Tennis elbow
- Sciatic nerve pain/sciatica
According to the Active Release Techniques website, soft tissue manipulations address several components related to scar tissue formation:
- acute injuries, including tears or collisions that can happen during exercise or sports
- micro-trauma, which is the gradual wear-down of tissue that’s often caused from aging and inflammation
- hypoxia, which results from tissue not receiving enough nutrients and oxygen
What are the Expectations for Active Release Technique?
Once you’ve decided that Pain and Performance Solutions is where you want to be, you will come in for an examination to determine what is ailing your body and causing you pain. Within this first session, our therapists will use our hands and apply them to your affected areas while you are performing specific movements. This will help us determine what technique will be best suited for your specific ailments. Most of the results are felt during the first set of treatments. Our bodies work differently, but the flow of energy in each of our bodies can be interrupted which causes a lot of the discomfort. Active release technique therapy will help to get the energy flowing back to steadier and healthy levels.
ART® therapy is a deep and demanding treatment and will cause some pain. But, the therapy will only be administered to your pain tolerance. If our onset analysis warrants this type of treatment, rest assure that it’s a natural treatment and extremely beneficial.
In conclusion…
At Pain & Performance Solutions, we know that each body works differently and everyone’s ailments are all unique. Setting up that first treatment is your first step in the right direction. Active release technique treatments may not be the diagnosis that best suits you. We have several other treatments that will work for the pain and discomfort you are feeling. We’ll determine that on your first visit and first treatment. Click here to read about our other services that we may end up determining is better suited for your bodies needs. We know we can help get your body back to performing at a healthy level and pain free state. To book an appointment, you can use our online scheduling system or if you have questions and would like to talk to someone, reach out to us at (707) 646-4404.
Active Release Technique (ART®): A Revolutionary Approach to Pain Management
If you’re seeking a physical therapy technique to alleviate pain and restore movement, Active Release Technique (ART®) could be the game-changer you’re looking for. At Pain and Performance Solutions, we specialize in ART®, a method designed to break down scar tissue and restore your body’s natural range of motion. Recent advancements in ART® are pushing the boundaries of what this therapy can achieve, making it a go-to solution for pain relief and functional recovery.
Here’s a closer look at how ART® works, the conditions it treats, and what you can expect from this cutting-edge approach.
What Makes Active Release Technique (ART®) Stand Out?
ART® targets scar tissue and adhesions that develop from injury, overuse, or chronic conditions. These restrictions can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility by impairing the smooth interaction of muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Advances in ART® now integrate muscle activation techniques, which not only release tension but also ensure proper muscle engagement post-treatment. This dual focus on releasing and retraining tissues provides a more comprehensive recovery, preventing the recurrence of compensatory patterns.
The Science Behind ART®
Traditional ART® combines manual pressure with active client movement to break down scar tissue and improve blood flow. However, the latest methodologies also consider the role of fascial connections—the web-like tissue that envelops muscles and organs.
By addressing fascial restrictions in addition to localized scar tissue, ART® practitioners can deliver:
- Improved range of motion: Enhanced flexibility in treated areas.
- Restored strength and endurance: Muscles regain their natural capacity.
- Reduced inflammation: Improved circulation accelerates healing.
What Conditions Can ART® Treat?
ART® continues to show impressive results for a variety of conditions, including:
- Chronic Pain: Lower back pain, neck pain, and tension headaches.
- Overuse Injuries: Carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, and tennis elbow.
- Sports Injuries: Shoulder strains, frozen shoulder, and plantar fasciitis.
- Nerve Pain: Sciatica and other nerve impingements.
Emerging research also highlights ART®’s effectiveness in treating post-surgical adhesions, helping patients recover faster and regain mobility.
What to Expect During ART® Treatment
Your journey with ART® begins with a comprehensive assessment. Recent advancements in diagnostic techniques now allow practitioners to utilize ultrasound imaging and range-of-motion tracking to pinpoint the exact areas of restriction. This precision ensures that treatment is customized to your unique needs.
During your session, the practitioner will apply targeted pressure to affected areas while guiding you through specific movements. This collaboration is key to breaking down scar tissue and restoring proper function.
What Sets ART® Apart at Pain and Performance Solutions?
At Pain and Performance Solutions, we don’t just focus on treating symptoms—we address the root cause of your discomfort. Our integrative approach combines ART® with other therapeutic techniques, such as Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) and deep tissue massage, to provide a comprehensive solution.
The Benefits of Choosing ART®
ART® offers numerous benefits for pain management and functional recovery:
- Improved posture and mobility: Say goodbye to stiffness and discomfort.
- Enhanced athletic performance: Regain strength and prevent future injuries.
- Natural, drug-free relief: A safe and holistic alternative to medications.
Recent advancements have also made ART® more accessible to individuals with chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia, by adapting pressure techniques to accommodate pain sensitivity.
Is ART® Right for You?
ART® may not be the perfect fit for everyone, which is why we offer a range of complementary treatments tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with acute pain or a long-term condition, our team will determine the most effective course of action during your initial consultation.