Active Release Techniques Explained: Benefits, Process, and What to Expect
As Chicagoans inch closer to Memorial Day and summer ahead, sports leagues are in full swing, Chicagoans and fellow Lincoln Parkers are remaining active along the lakefront, with pickleball, golf, and other activities. As work continues to remain busy for those commuting, working remotely and hybrid, one may notice a recent muscle injury, ache, or tightness in a particular area of the body (neck, back, hip, shoulder). Most did not know that these types of injuries can be treated with soft tissue work, and in particular, Active Release Techniques (ART). ART is a hands-on therapy that helps athletes and everyday people recover faster, move better, and feel stronger. In this post, we’ll explore what ART is, how it works, and whether it’s right for you.
ART was developed by Dr. Michael Leahy, a chiropractor who had a background in engineering while attending the Air Force Academy. ART combines movement with manual therapy, targeting several soft tissue injuries (muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, nerves) in the upper body, lower body, and spine. ART aims to relieve tension caused by overuse or repetitive movement injuries (ie. desk work, cycling, weight training). Most ART providers are chiropractors, but other health care providers can become certified in it depending on how they plan to help their patients. ART providers need to understand anatomy, have a thorough understanding of the presented information, and are tested at various seminars to ensure proficiency.
ART works in a few different ways including, but not limited to:
- ART certified providers use their hands the ART algorithm, orthopedic tests, and functional tests to evaluate and assess the injuries presented by the patient
- ART providers utilize specific movements of the affected tissue(s) paired with proper depth, pressure, and compression to break up scar tissue/adhesions causing pain in the impacted tissue
- Lastly, ART restores normal motion and function through its treatments
ART treats numerous conditions that may include
•Carpal tunnel syndrome
•Sciatica
•Plantar fasciitis
•Shin splints
•Tennis elbow
•Neck/back pain
•Headaches (tension-related)
•Sports injuries
During a typical ART treatment, patients will be explained what is going to happen by the ART provider related to one’s assessment, treatment, and explanation of their injury. It is completely hands-on, with no use of machines, or mechanical devices, and typically last 15-30 minutes per treatment session. Depending on how long one suffered these injuries and the severity of the injury, it may require multiple treatments to allow proper recovery.
Receiving ART ensures a faster recovery from your soft tissue injury or injuries, increases mobility and range of motion in the affected joints (spinal, non-spinal, or both), reduces one’s pain, and all treatments are completely customized to the patient.
ART works with various population bases, including amateur athletes, weekend warriors, office workers with posture-related issues, people dealing with repetitive strain injuries, and those looking for drug-free, hands-on relief for a soft tissue injury one suffered.
Active Release Techniques offer a powerful way to break free from pain and move with ease. If you’re curious whether ART could benefit you, schedule a consultation with a certified ART provider/chiropractor today and experience the difference.