FAQ – Active Release Techniques (ART)®
What is Active Release Techniques (ART)® ?
The ART® website (www.activerelease.com) explains that “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. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART. These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles.”
It goes on to explain that overused muscles “can cause your body to produce 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.”
What does an ART treatment feel like?
The first couple of treatments sessions can often be slightly uncomfortable due the breaking and removal of adhesions and scar tissue. This discomfort subsides with the completion of the treatment session, and the ART clinician will work within your comfort level to minimize any soreness. Most patients report the treatment as feeling like a “good hurt”.