In Part 1, we learned about myofascial release for stiffness and pain due to Parkinson’s. In this blog post, I will discuss another option called Active Release Technique®. I personally have use this and found it extremely affective.
What is Active Release Technique®?
Active Release Technique® (ART) is a fast, non-invasive, and effective healing approach that is movement-based and can benefit everyone. The ART approach uses your own movement to release tension on scar tissue or adhesions. Unlike massage or other myofascial release techniques, ART has over 500 specific protocols to treat affected areas of the body near the spine or in the extremities. ART treats your body’s soft tissue by combining manipulation and movement. The technique has been around for more than 30 years.
ART identifies, isolates, and targets the affected area to break up scar tissue. This promotes blood flow and faster healing of injuries. ART can be used to treat problems with your:
- muscles
- ligaments
- tendons
- nerves
Physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists (LMT) and physicians are trained in ART.
Tissues ART Works On:
- Fascia – the fibrous connective tissue that protects and supports muscles and organs throughout your body. Plantar fasciitis is a common fascia tissue condition.
- Major muscle groups – this includes muscles in your neck and shoulders, back, and hamstrings.
- Tendons and ligaments – connective tissue
What conditions can be treated with ART?
- Pain and stiffness in the lower back
- Chronic neck pain
- Tension headaches
- Shoulder strains (including frozen shoulder)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Shin splints
- Sciatic nerve pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bursitis
- Tennis elbow
How Active Release Technique® Works
ART works by breaking up adhesions, which are dense collections of scar tissue that form when muscles and connective tissues are injured. When the scar tissue binds between your muscles it limits flexibility, causing pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.
Sometimes adhesions can also entrap nerves. The addressing of the soft tissues through ART breaks up the adhesions so your muscles, joints, and nerves can move freely again.
During an ART session, the clinician will use the technique to isolate and target the area, manipulating it to break up the scar tissue and restore proper blood flow so the area can heal.
The goal of ART is to break up the adhesions and restore your range of motion and improve your pain. By breaking up scar tissue, muscles and joints can glide and move freely again without pain and stiffness.
What to Expect from Active Release Technique®
ART involves very precise pressure and can be painful. It can work in as little as one session for some, though some people may need more than one session.
ART should only be performed by a certified provider. You can find certified ART providers in your area on the ART website.
Resources:
www.healthline.com/health/active-release-technique
http://www.activerelease.com