Active Release Technique- Benefit Guide

July 19, 2010 in A.R.T by excel

Active Release Technique is a patented, state of the art soft tissue system / movement based massage technique that focuses on evaluation and treatment of soft tissue injuries.  Acute injuries and chronic micro-trauma tears (over-use syndromes such as tennis elbow and shin splints) develop scar tissue in the affected area and further entrap muscle and fascia that needs to move with our daily activities (work and recreation).  If the tissue does not move freely, more tension is created and the tissue is once again adversely affected.  Once an area of soft tissue injury is evaluated, the correct technique is applied and re-tested for changes in range of motion, strength, pain reduction and function.

Active Release Techniques (ART) have changed the way that I evaluate and treat soft tissue injuries (muscle, tendon, ligament, fascia and nerve entrapments).  I have been using the techniques for 3 years and have noted a dramatic difference in the ability to get patients back to their functional goals quicker and with greater success.  Patients are usually surprised the changes in motion, strength, quality of movement and reduced pain after the techniques are applied – and even more pleased at the lasting results. Patients have commented on the difference between ART and other conservative therapy techniques noting that it is generally more comfortable and provides immediate and lasting results – obviously something they are looking for when medical costs are rising and time outside of family and work has diminished.

Some common injuries that are treated with ART:

• Back and Neck pain
• Thoracic dysfunction
• Tennis and Golfers elbow
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Shin splints
• Plantar fasciitis / Achilles tendinitis
• Frozen shoulder
• Rotator cuff injuries
• ITB syndrome
• Piriformis syndrome
• Sprains and strains

Click here for some more examples of how ART can help you.  If you have any questions or concerns, please read our FAQ section or contact a local ART provider.

- Contributed by: Greg Masiko, PT, MSPT, ART, Glen Mills clinic manager