Exercise

Active Release Techniques

Active Release Techniques (ART) is a state of the art soft tissue movement-based massage technique that is extremely effective for accurately locating the cause of soft tissue discomforts and effectively resolving overuse and strain/sprain conditions. At Integral Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic located in downtown Edmonton, we apply Active Release Techniques to diagnose and treat the cause of cumulative trauma disorders, which often result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning and aching. ART-patented hands-on therapy allows practitioners to correct muscular and soft tissue problems caused by adhesion formation. The technique is performed by professionals, who have completed ART training courses and passed rigorous written and practical examinations.

Active Release Techniques is very different from any other soft tissue technique in that it is active, effective and a complete system. First the provider listens to the client’s issues to understand the root cause of the pain. Second, the practitioner evaluates the issue with hands-on palpation. Once the cause of the pain is identified then the provider follows a series of ART protocols to alleviate a client’s condition in a permanent of long-lasting manner. The care involves a very unique hands-on touch along with precise movements performed by the client and the practitioner.

At the beginning of October, I injured my lower back. When I attended physiotherapy to have Adam assist me, I felt as if I would break in half. Adam used IMS and ART to help relax my muscles so that I could at least stand upright. After a while Adam gave me stretching exercises to loosen my back to keep me in motion. Adam shared his knowledge of recovery and patience with me.

I find Adam to be professional, courteous, knowledgeable, and to have a great sense of humour. Having a sense of humour and a laugh, when one is in pain, helps the mental frame of mind.

April Hildebrandt

What is an ART treatment like?

Every ART session is actually a combination of examination and treatment. The ART 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.

These treatment protocols – over 500 specific moves – are unique to ART. They allow providers to identify and correct the specific problems that are affecting each individual patient. ART treatments generally take 8 to 15 minutes for each area being treated and may require 2 to 10 visits to alleviate the issue.

How do overuse conditions occur?

Over-used muscles and soft tissues change in three important ways:

• Acute conditions such as strains and sprains
• Accumulation of small tears via cumulative micro-trauma
• Not getting enough oxygen due to constant pressure, tension or stress

Any one of these three factors can cause your body to produce tough, dense scar tissue in the affected area. This scar tissue does not allow your muscles to move freely and results in muscles being shorter and weaker. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength and pain. Nerves can also become entrapped in the fibrotic muscle triggering tingling, numbness or burning sensations.

What conditions can Active Release Techniques resolve?

For more information visit the Active Release Techniques website.

How we can help

At Integral Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, our experienced physios are effectively treating a wide range of conditions through active release therapy. Edmonton men and women, like you, are enjoying long-lasting results through Active Release Techniques. Call 587-401-2371 to schedule an appointment and to discover if this is the right treatment for you.