Active Release Technique (ART)
Targeted soft tissue therapy for pain relief, mobility, and performance
At Crater Chiropractic, we use Active Release Technique (ART) to effectively target pain, tension, and movement restrictions caused by overused or injured soft tissues. Whether you're dealing with tight muscles, scar tissue buildup, or nerve entrapment, ART offers a precise, hands-on approach to help your body heal. This therapy is especially effective for athletes, active individuals, and anyone experiencing muscle imbalances or soft tissue pain from posture, work demands, or everyday movement patterns. With consistent care, ART can help reduce chronic pain, improve range of motion, and support better long-term performance.
What Is Active Release Technique?
Active Release Technique is a patented soft tissue system and movement-based therapy. It focuses on muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves that have become restricted due to overuse or injury. These restrictions often form as a result of repetitive motions, acute trauma, or chronic inflammation. When left untreated, they can limit mobility, cause pain, and even alter posture or movement patterns.
During treatment, your provider uses their hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and mobility of soft tissues. They then apply precise pressure while guiding you through specific movements to break up adhesions and restore function. Each movement is carefully selected to target the affected area and retrain the tissue to move properly. This combination of manual pressure and motion makes ART both diagnostic and therapeutic, allowing for immediate feedback and noticeable improvements.
What Conditions Can Active Release Technique Help Treat?
Active Release Technique is a versatile therapy that can be adapted to treat a wide range of conditions caused by soft tissue tension or nerve entrapment. Whether you're dealing with a recent injury or chronic discomfort, ART targets the underlying restrictions contributing to your symptoms.
Neck and shoulder tension
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Sciatica and nerve entrapment
Shin splints and plantar fasciitis
Golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow
Hip and low back pain
Headaches related to muscle tightness
Repetitive strain and athletic injuries
This technique is effective across a wide range of patients—from athletes and active professionals to individuals managing chronic tension from daily activities or poor posture.
How Active Release Technique (ART) Relieves Pain and Restores Mobility
Soft tissue injuries often lead to the formation of scar tissue, which can trap nerves, restrict movement, and cause pain. This scar tissue builds up over time and can interfere with the way your muscles and joints function. ART targets these adhesions directly, helping to:
Improve circulation
Restore range of motion
Relieve compressed nerves
Break up scar tissue and muscle knots
Enhance athletic recovery and performance
Reduce inflammation in overused or injured areas
By addressing the root cause of soft tissue dysfunction, ART not only relieves pain but also improves overall movement quality. Many patients notice a difference after just one session, especially in areas that have felt tight or limited for a long time. With ongoing treatment, ART can help prevent future injuries and support long-term musculoskeletal health.
What to Expect During an ART Session
Each session is highly specific and interactive. You’ll remain clothed in comfortable attire while your provider works through a series of guided movements and pressure points. These movements are designed to isolate problem areas and improve tissue function without unnecessary force.
Most sessions last 15–30 minutes.
Some discomfort may be experienced as tight tissue is released—similar to deep tissue massage.
Relief is often noticeable within just a few visits.
We’ll always adjust intensity based on your comfort level and treatment goals. Communication during treatment is encouraged so we can respond to your body in real time. Our goal is to create an experience that is both effective and respectful of your limits.
Why Choose ART at Crater Chiropractic?
Our experienced team integrates Active Release Technique into individualized care plans to treat the root cause—not just the symptoms. Whether you’re recovering from injury, training for a race, or simply trying to move without pain, ART can be a powerful addition to your wellness routine. It’s a precise, hands-on approach that delivers results where other treatments may fall short. Feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love.