Enhanced Mobility with A.R.T.
Active Release Technique (ART): A Powerful Tool for Pain Relief and Improved Mobility
At Movement Chiropractic & Sports Clinic, we use a range of advanced techniques to help patients achieve pain relief, recover from injury, and optimize their movement. One of the effective therapies we offer is the Active Release Technique (ART). ART is a hands-on treatment that targets soft tissue restrictions, such as muscle tightness, scar tissue, and adhesions. By focusing on these problem areas, ART helps to relieve pain, restore mobility, and support long-term functional improvement.
What is Active Release Technique (ART)?
The Active Release Technique (ART) is a patented, manual therapy approach that treats conditions related to muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. ART is especially useful for breaking down scar tissue and adhesions, which can form as a result of overuse, injuries, and muscle imbalances. These restrictions often cause pain, limit movement, and can lead to dysfunction in the body’s biomechanics.
ART is particularly effective for:
Treating chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, back, and hips
Releasing tightness in overused muscles
Addressing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, and plantar fasciitis
Supporting athletic recovery and injury prevention
How Does ART Work?
ART involves a series of precise movements in which the practitioner applies pressure to a targeted area while guiding the patient through specific movements. This combination of tension and motion breaks down scar tissue and adhesions, allowing muscles and soft tissues to move freely again.
Here’s how the ART process works:
Identification of Soft Tissue Restrictions: Dr. Drew Hunt carefully assesses the area of discomfort to locate adhesions or scar tissue. Through palpation, he can feel areas where tissue is restricted and identify the exact spots needing treatment.
Targeted Pressure and Movement: Once the area of restriction is identified, Dr. Hunt applies targeted pressure while guiding the affected muscle or tissue through a specific range of motion. This active movement is key to breaking down scar tissue and restoring mobility.
Release and Relief: As the restricted tissue is released, blood flow improves, tension decreases, and pain subsides. This release allows the muscles and soft tissues to function normally, which is essential for pain relief and improved range of motion.
Benefits of Active Release Technique (ART) in Chiropractic Care
ART is an ideal complement to chiropractic adjustments, as it addresses soft tissue restrictions that can impact joint function and alignment. The integration of ART into chiropractic care provides patients with a comprehensive treatment approach that delivers long-term results. Some of the benefits of ART include:
Reduced Pain and Tension: ART alleviates pain by breaking down scar tissue and adhesions that are common sources of discomfort in the neck, back, shoulders, and extremities.
Improved Range of Motion: By releasing tight muscles and tissues, ART restores normal movement, making everyday activities easier and more comfortable.
Accelerated Healing and Recovery: ART enhances blood flow to the treated area, which helps reduce inflammation and speeds up the body’s natural healing process.
Injury Prevention: For athletes and active individuals, ART helps keep muscles and tissues flexible and functional, reducing the likelihood of future injuries.
Enhanced Athletic Performance: ART supports optimal movement mechanics, allowing athletes to perform more effectively and efficiently without the limitations caused by muscle tightness or restricted tissue.
ART with Dr. Drew Hunt
Dr. Drew Hunt uses ART as part of his holistic approach to chiropractic care. His expertise in ART enables him to effectively address muscle and tissue restrictions that may be contributing to pain, stiffness, or limited mobility. Dr. Hunt customizes each ART session based on the patient’s needs, ensuring that the treatment is both comfortable and effective.
ART is often combined with other therapies like chiropractic adjustments, the Graston Technique, and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) to create a comprehensive plan for improved mobility and pain relief.
Conditions Treated with ART at Movement Chiropractic & Sports Clinic
ART is effective for treating a wide range of conditions, including:
Chronic neck, shoulder, and back pain
Carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica
Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis
Tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and rotator cuff injuries
Muscle strains and overuse injuries
What to Expect During an ART Session
During an ART session, Dr. Hunt will apply targeted pressure to specific areas while guiding you through movements that isolate the affected tissue. Many patients describe the sensation as a “deep stretch” or “relief” as tension releases. Some mild soreness may follow the session, but most patients feel increased mobility and pain relief soon after treatment.
Is ART Right for You?
If you’re struggling with chronic pain, limited range of motion, or soft tissue restrictions, ART may be the solution you need. Dr. Hunt’s expertise in Active Release Technique enables him to provide targeted, effective treatment that addresses the root cause of pain and dysfunction.
Book an ART Session in Greater Indianapolis
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of ART as part of your chiropractic care, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Movement Chiropractic & Sports Clinic in Greater Indianapolis. Dr. Drew Hunt and our team are here to help you achieve pain-free, optimal movement with personalized, expert care.
Schedule your chiropractic appointment today and discover how Active Release Technique can support your recovery, relief, and better mobility!