Active Release Technique (A.R.T.) is a patented soft tissue technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. A multitude of musculoskeletal conditions can benefit from A.R.T. These conditions all have one important similarity: they are frequently the result of overused muscles, causing muscle spasm, scar tissue, and hypoxia. (1)
During an A.R.T. treatment, the patient actively moves the affected soft tissue structure while the practitioner maintains contact on the injured area. This allows the practitioner to be precise, and to effectively treat muscles, tendons, or ligaments.
With over 500 specific moves, the treatment protocols can allow the practitioner to tailor treatments to the needs of each patient.(1) This includes:
An A.R.T. session is both an examination and a treatment. As the A.R.T. website explains, “the provider uses his or 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.” (1)
A.R.T. is a specific, targeted treatment, and patients often see results within 2-4 weeks, or 3-6 visits. However, this varies based on the diagnosed condition by the physician which may require additional therapies in combination of A.R.T.
When muscles (and other soft tissues) are overused, three types of problems may result:
Your body responds to these occurrences by producing tough, dense scar tissue in the problem area. This scar tissue restricts healthy tissues, preventing them from moving freely. As more scar tissue builds, your muscles weaken and become shorter, nerves can become trapped, and the tension that is placed on the tendons might even cause tendon inflammation or tendonitis. (1)
An A.R.T. session is both an examination and a treatment. As the A.R.T. website explains, “the provider uses his or 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.” (1)
A.R.T. is a specific, targeted treatment, and patients often see results within, 2-4 weeks, or 6-8 visits. However, this varies based on the diagnosed condition by the physician which may require additional therapies in combination of A.R.T.
Only health care providers with a license to treat soft-tissue injuries or conditions can become A.R.T. certified. This includes chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists, and others. However, you need to ensure that the health care professional is properly A.R.T. certified
Dr. Bryan Matthisen D.C., a board certified chiropractor, is a full body certified A.R.T. provider. Give us a call at 907-349-4212 to schedule an appointment!
References:
1) What is Active Release Techniques (ART) to Providers? accessed 7/28/21