Active Release Technique
This technique is the bread and butter of Premier Performance Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine and is what sets us apart from all physical therapist clinics in the Boston area. We pride ourselves in this manual treatment because we’ve dedicated our careers in our ability to use our hands.
Active Release Technique (A.R.T) is the gold standard in soft tissue mobilization. It not only stretches the muscle, but it addresses the fascia. A.R.T can also target structures such as ligaments and tendons. This in turn can relieve the pressure in joints (osteoarthritis, poor biomechanics, lumbar spine, knee pain, etc.), which could potentially have a patient avoid surgery.
How Active Release Technique Works
Understanding the Mechanisms Behind Effective Soft Tissue Treatment
Scar Tissue and Adhesions
Active Release Technique’s core concept is to prevent and break up any dense scar tissue or adhesions. These adhesions can limit normal range of motion of joints and muscles because they cause abnormal binding between muscle groups. This in turn, will cause trigger points and pain can develop.
Who Benefits Most from A.R.T?
Here are some signs that you might be experiencing some adhesion/scar tissue accumulation and can benefit from ART:
Active Release Technique is appropriate for:
ART treatment is a unique protocol that consists of very precise, targeted movements, most of which are done by the patient. Each ART session is different and custom-created to treat the patient’s problem depending on the location and severity of the symptoms. Over 500 different hand motions are used by trained ART practitioners to evaluate a patient’s condition, locate areas of tightness that signify tissue damage, and then to help the patient move in a way that releases the affected tissue through directed tension and very specific movements.
