ART is a patented, state of the art, soft tissue movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. It was designed to specifically target and remove soft tissue adhesions (‘scar tissue’) which leads to increased soft tissue tension, pain and dysfunction.
Adhesions are the result of acute injuries such as strains, sprains, collisions or bruises OR they can be the result of repetitive motions that occur with stress and strain of everyday life such as daily routines of the workplace, emotional stress and tension, postural strain or athletic training. When muscles become stiff and tight due to these acute or repetitive factors, oxygenated blood cannot reach the muscles, ultimately leading to the formation of tough, dense scar tissue in the affected area.
This scar tissue binds up and ties down tissues that need to move freely. As scar tissue builds up, muscles become shorter and weaker, tension on tendons causes tendonitis, and nerves can become trapped. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength, and pain. If a nerve is trapped you may also feel tingling, numbness, and weakness.
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How It Works
Every ART session is actually a combination of examination and treatment. Dr. Pam uses her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Abnormal tissues are treated by combining precisely directed tension with very specific patient movements. This is a very efficient means in breaking up the scar tissue so that proper movement and oxygenated blood flow can be restored to the affected area, which makes the muscle “healthy” once again.
These treatment protocols – over 500 specific moves – are unique to ART. They allow providers to identify and correct the specific problems that are affecting each individual patient. ART is not a cookie-cutter approach.
Who It Helps
Any condition that results in overused muscles can be resolved quickly and permanently with Active Release Technique. These conditions include, but are not limited to:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Knee problems
- Shoulder pain/rotator cuff injuries
- Shin splints
- Back pain
- Headaches
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Sciatica
- Tennis elbow
- Golfer’s elbow