What is Active Release Techniques (ART)

ART is a patented, non-invasive, soft tissue treatment process that identifies and removes scar tissue and adhesions that have been known to cause pain, stiffness, muscle weakness, numbness and biomechanical dysfunctions associated with repetitive strains and injuries. Active Release Techniques is classified as a multidisciplinary procedure which is practiced by numerous healthcare professions including Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists and Sports Physicians.

How does an ART session feel?

ART is a very safe, non-invasive technique with virtually no side effects, and has a record of producing remarkable results. Treatments can sometimes feel uncomfortable during the movement phase as adhesions are being removed. The discomfort is usually short in duration and almost immediately absent after treatment. It is very common to reproduce the symptoms during treatment. This is a good indication that the problem has been identified. Most patients will describe the pain during treatment as a “good hurt”.

What is the history of Active Release Techniques?

ART has been developed, refined, and patented by P. Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP. Dr. Leahy noticed that his patients' symptoms seemed to be related to changes in their soft tissue that could be felt by hand. By observing how muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves responded to different types of work, Dr. Leahy was able to consistently resolve over 90% of his patients' problems. He now teaches and certifies health care providers all over the world to use ART.

Why is ART so successful?

ART practitioners are trained to effectively treat soft tissue dysfunction by finding the true cause of the problem. ART is used for finding specific tissues that are compromised or restricted. Once these areas are located, the tissues are then physically worked back to their normal tension, length and texture by using a combination of hand positions and contacts. An experienced ART practitioner can successfully resolve many soft tissue problems within 6-8 treatments.