You’re likely familiar with the field of chiropractic services in general, but there are different techniques and practices within this medical field. One specialized chiropractic treatment is Active Release Techniques. This unique form of chiropractic treatment was developed in 1984 by Michael Leahy, Doctor of Chiropractic and Aeronautical Engineer. This non-invasive technique was designed to locate and resolve soft-tissue disorders and it is based on scientific evidence of improvement in areas damaged by an injury sustained by trauma, exercise, or repetitive stress. If you are searching for an effective chiropractic technique to help relieve your pain or limited mobility, consider if Active Release Techniques is right for you.
What To Know About Active Release Techniques
What Is Active Release Techniques?
Active Release Techniques (ART®) is a specialized form of chiropractic technique that combines manipulation and movement. ART® is used to help your major muscle groups, ligaments, tendons, and fascia. During an Active Release Techniques session, your practitioner will feel your muscles and direct your body movements to isolate and target the root cause of your pain. They will then apply appropriate pressure using their hand or thumb while guiding your body and limbs with purposeful movement. The combination of pressure and movement will help break up scar tissue to restore mobility, reduce pain, and facilitate healing.
How Does Active Release Techniques Help The Body?
ART® addresses soft tissue injuries. When there are adhesions within the soft tissue, it causes pain, stiffness, and a lack of range of motion. These adhesions are caused by the development of fibrous scar tissue and this type of tissue can shorten and weaken, causing various problems. Scar tissue can entrap nerves, reduce movement, cause chronic pain, and more.
What Conditions Can Active Release Techniques Treat?
Active Release Techniques can be used on all areas of the body, making it an effective treatment for many forms of injury. Some common problems ART® can address are:
- Back pain.
- Neck pain.
- Shoulder pain or frozen shoulder.
- Plantar fasciitis.
- Poor posture.
- Tennis elbow.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
- Tension headaches.
- Soft tissue injuries
When Should I See A Chiropractor For Active Release Techniques?
It can be hard to tell what’s happening to cause pain without a formal diagnosis so some people aren’t sure when certain treatments might be beneficial for them. You should visit a chiropractor for ART® if you have recently suffered an injury or if an old injury is flaring up, if you are experiencing body pain, if your range of motion is limited, if you perform repetitive actions every day that are causing pain, or if you are experiencing a musculoskeletal problem that you would like diagnosed and treated. You do not have to know the exact cause of pain before going to a chiropractor; part of the job of a chiropractor is determining a diagnosis and then developing a care plan.
Active Release Techniques Available In Irvine
If you are suffering from a musculoskeletal issue, a chiropractor can help relieve pain, facilitate healing, and increase range of motion using Active Release Techniques. The chiropractic team at Performance Health And Wellness in Irvine, California, is focused on complete health and well-being. Several of our members of staff are certified to administer Active Release Techniques and we offer many chiropractic services that generate a variety of benefits to ensure you receive the treatment you need. If you are suffering from soft tissue pain, call Performance Health And Wellness at 1-949-476-1250 or fill out the #contact-form to book a consultation.
FAQ
Will Active Release Therapy hurt?
Each Active Release Therapy session will be tailored to a person’s needs and their pain level tolerances. Because Active Release Techniques require pressure on the damaged areas, it may cause some discomfort and mild pain, but your practitioner will make it as comfortable as possible and will communicate with you throughout the session to make sure you are not experiencing intense pain.
Is ART® the same as chiropractic adjustment?
With a chiropractic adjustment, you will experience a gentle, controlled manipulation to reposition your back and spine, and other joints of your body. Active Release Technique (ART®) involves functional movement assessments and deep tissue massage accompanied by therapist-directed patient movements for various areas of the body.
What can I expect in an ART® Session?
An ART® treatment session is non-invasive and is known to provide effective pain relief. Your appointment with a certified Active Release Technique practitioner will involve an examination and manual therapy that applies tension to the affected area while the patient is directed to lengthen and shorten the fascia. Your ART® certified therapist will follow each fascia release into a new tissue barrier and apply very precise pressure for 90 – 120 seconds. After a few releases, the tissues will become softer and more pliable.
