Active Release Technique (ART)

What is ART?

ART is a patented, movement-based soft tissue treatment technique to address overuse problems. By smoothing out tissue thickness, releasing trigger points, lengthening tight muscles, freeing scars and mobilizing nerves, patients experience improved range of motion, better strength and coordination, and decreased pain. Many people notice these benefits after just one session. Expect a quick and permanent resolution of your symptoms after ART.

Why is ART different?

• Each ART treatment includes examination, treatment, and re-examination. You’ll appreciate immediate improvement after treatment.


• We carefully evaluate the texture, tightness, movement quality, and sensitivity of the muscle, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and nerves to help focus each treatment.


• Abnormal movements are treated using precisely directed tissue tension and very specific movement patterns to elongate and smooth tissue. This is accomplished by moving the tissue from a shortened to a lengthened position while the therapist maintains the tissue on tension with his/her hands.


• Each tissue is treated using a specific protocol from over 500 specific moves unique to ART. The protocols allow us to identify and treat the dysfunctional tissue that is unique to each person’s injury. ART is not a cookie-cutter treatment approach.

How does ART feel?

Because the technique involves tissue tension rather than compression, it is surprisingly comfortable. Ideally the movement part of the technique is done actively (by you) increasing effectiveness, and giving you a nice feeling of your tissues elongating as you move. Most people have an immediate sense of openness and warmth in treated areas. Relief is often immediate and long lasting.

How long does it take?

ART can be done on its own, but is often combined with other manual therapies. 1-3 sessions effectively treat a given tissue. We encourage people to stretch and sometimes do strengthening exercises after a session to maximize the benefits.

More dynamic than massage and more effective than movement alone, ART is your answer to tightness, soreness and weakness! Call us today to schedule an ART appointment. You’ll be glad you did!