Active Release Technique

Active Release Technique (ART) is a hands-on treatment that targets scar tissue to relieve pain and restore movement.

ART uses precise pressure and movement to break up adhesions in soft tissues, improving mobility and reducing pain. This movement-based myofascial release technique addresses a range of issues, including:

  • Muscles (e.g. hamstring, quadriceps, calf strains)

  • Tendonitis (e.g Achilles tendonitis, rotator cuff injuries)

  • Ligament Sprains (e.g ankle sprains)

  • Fascial Tightness (e.g plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome)

  • Nerve Entrapment (e.g carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica)

A person receiving a massage on the shoulder from a therapist in a gym setting.

Benefits of ART

Active Release Therapy (ART) offers many benefits for those with musculoskeletal issues. It’s even more effective when paired with other treatments like dry needling. Benefits of ART include:

  • Improves Range of Motion: Releases tight muscles and restores full movement.

  • Reduces Pain: Effectively addresses pain from injuries and overuse.

  • Speeds Recovery: Accelerates healing for both acute and chronic conditions.

  • Prevents Future Injuries: Corrects imbalances to reduce the risk of injury.

  • Boosts Performance: Enhances flexibility and movement, improving athletic performance.

  • Non-invasive & Drug-Free: A safe, natural treatment option without the need for surgery or medication.

Physical therapist stretching a man's arm on a table in a gym setting.

How It Works

Active Release Technique (ART) is a hands-on treatment that targets scar tissue caused by repetitive strain, injury, or overuse.

Scar tissue restricts movement, reduces muscle function, and increases the risk of injury. ART works by applying precise pressure and movement to break down scar tissue, allowing the body to reabsorb it and restore proper muscle function.

During treatment, a therapist uses their hands to assess and treat tight or abnormal tissues in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. This process improves mobility, reduces pain, and helps prevent future injuries.

Trainer assisting woman in a bird-dog exercise in a gym

What to ExpecT

At Elite HP, we use ART to relieve pain, improve movement, and get your muscles working properly again. It’s like a mix of a stretch and a massage — but with a purpose. Here’s what to expect when you come in:

  • Find the tight spot — We locate the tight, sore, or stiff area in your muscle that causing problems.

  • Guide the movement — We’ll ask you to move your body in a certain way, like reaching across your body or lifting your arm.

  • Apply pressure — We press on the tight spot and you perform the movement, releasing tension and breaking up tight tissue.

  • Feel the benefits — Most patients see improvement almost immediately, with more mobility and less pain.

Active Release Technique FAQ