Running, tennis, golfing, cycling, walking, and even work-related movements can, over time, lead to muscle tightness, pain, the loss of strength and a reduced range of motion. We know some of these aches and pains by name: a headache, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, tennis elbow, runner's knee, etc.

Thankfully, Active Release Techniques® (ART®), a state-of-the-art, soft tissue, movement-based massage treatment, can relieve these issues quickly and permanently. Following a hands-on evaluation of the texture, tightness and movement of the affected area, our trained ART® providers combine precisely directed tension with specific movements to treat these abnormal tissues.

Active Release Techniques® is truly the gold standard when it comes to soft tissue manipulation. It is administered by trained professionals to damaged soft tissue, restoring movement and eliminating pain. So, how does it work? Muscles are composed of tiny filaments of tissue that run parallel to one another, allowing each muscle to move freely. When a muscle is injured, these filaments tear. Some muscle tissue injuries are sudden like tears and sprain/strains. Others are the result of “cumulative trauma” like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and bursitis. Regardless of the cause, the body reacts to the injury in a similar way, by filling the damaged area with inferior tissue known as fibrous adhesions. Adhesions can develop between muscles or within muscles. Still, the result is the same—the once parallel filaments of muscle tissue get bound together so they no longer slide and glide freely, impairing movement and causing pain. ART® is the first and only treatment designed specifically to treat these soft tissue problems. Combining an understanding of biomechanics and movement with hands-on manual mobilization and manipulation techniques, ART® allows the practitioner to go right to the heart of the problem and resolve it quickly and effectively.

ART® does not utilize a single, cookie-cutter approach. Our providers are trained in over 500 specific treatment protocols to identify and correct each patient's individual problems.  Practitioners undergo extensive hands-on training to meet the board certified credentialed ART® status.  In addition, ART® is not taught in any physical therapy academic programs.  ART® was developed by Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP.  Active Release Technique® has a federally protected patent.  Members of the College of Providers are the only ones permitted to use the term Active Release Technique® (ART®) and the associated treatment protocols.  For more information on ART® please visit the Active Release Technique® website.  

Active Release Techniques

If you're ready to learn more about how ART® can rid you of pain, allowing you to maintain an active lifestyle, contact SOL online or at (510) 547-1630.