ACTIVE RELEASE TECHNIQUE

A.R.T. is a patented system consisting of over 500 unique and specific protocols designed to restore optimal mobility and function to soft tissue and correct certain conditions. The technique focuses on the removal of adhesions (abnormal conditions where bodily tissues are united with fibrous tissue) in the soft tissues using specific protocols. Adhesions can result from acute injury, repetitive motion and constant pressure.

A.R.T. eliminates the pain and dysfunction associated with the adhesions. This technique deals with more than just muscle and fascia, which are often treated with a technique known as myofascial release. Though an excellent physical therapy technique that we use for many conditions, myofascial release is not even similar to A.R.T. A.R.T. is very different than other soft-tissue therapeutic techniques. It offers more-predictable results for problems caused by over-used muscles (and other soft tissues). These tissues can change in three important ways:

• Acute conditions (pulls, tears, etc.)
• Accumulated small tears (micro-trauma)
• Lack of oxygen (hypoxia)

Each of these factors can cause your body to produce tough, dense scar tissue in the affected area. This scar tissue binds up and ties down tissues that need to move freely. As scar tissue builds up, muscles become shorter and weaker, tension on tendons causes tendonitis, and nerves can become entrapped. This can cause reduced range of motion, loss of strength and pain. If a nerve is entrapped, you may also feel tingling, numbness and weakness. Some of the common conditions we can correct with A.R.T. are:

• Headaches
• Carpal tunnel & other peripheral nerve entrapments
• Back pain & dysfunction
• Tendonitis
• Soft-tissue inflammatory disorders in shoulders, elbows, wrists, hands, hips, knees, ankles & feet
• Recurrent sprains & strains
• Sciatica
• TMJ

Only certified providers like those at SportFit can tell you whether A.R.T. can help correct your condition. Your initial consultation, history, examination and treatment may take up to one hour. The first couple of treatments may be uncomfortable. This depends on the severity of your condition and pain tolerance. Any discomfort is only temporary and will stop within seconds after the treatment ends. In most cases, patients experience a positive result after just one treatment. And A.R.T. has no side effects.

Once your problem is corrected, the chances of it returning are very low, as long you follow your prescribed exercise program, other lifestyle modifications and/or medication prescribed by your doctor. Keep in mind that there are times when surgery might become the only solution to a problem. Consulting with your doctor and your SportFit A.R.T. provider can help you decide on the best course of action for your overall health and well-being.