Introduction
Active Release Techniques (ART) are a soft tissue method that focuses on relieving tissue tension via the removal of fibrosis/adhesions which can develop in tissues as a result of overload due to repetitive use. These disorders may lead to muscular weakness, numbness, aching, tingling, and burning sensations. ART has been reported to be both a diagnostic and a treatment technique, however, there is little scientific evidence regarding the effects of ART on various pathologies, with most of the available evidence being anecdotal and based on case reports.
Active Release Techniques (ART)
Active Release Techniques (ART) was developed, refined, and patented by P. Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP. It is a state of the art soft tissue system/movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART. These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles.
Dr. Jay Shephard is a certified ART® provider and was the one of the first practitioners to bring ART® to Calgary. He is also an Active Release Technique Certified instructor.
What Conditions Can Be Treated With Active Release Techniques?
Lower Back Pain & Neck StiffnessShoulder PainHeadachesSports-Related InjuriesMuscle Spasms and Nerve PainDecreased Joint FunctionMuscle and Fascial TensionChronic PainCarpal Tunnel SyndromeShin SplintsSciaticaPlantar FasciitisKnee ProblemsTennis Elbow
Shephard Health uses Active Release in conjunction with our many other wellness treatments to improve the body’s natural method of healing. Our focus is alleviating your pain and rehabilitating your body from the roadblocks that prevent you from performing to your potential. The Shephard Health team will always strive to identify and treat the cause of your conditions and illness, rather than just masking the symptoms.
What is an ART treatment like?
Every ART session is actually a combination of examination and treatment. Dr. Shephard uses his hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Abnormal tissues are treated by combining precisely directed tension with very specific patient movements.
These treatment protocols – over 500 specific moves – are unique to ART. They allow providers to identify and correct the specific problems that are affecting each individual patient. ART is not a cookie-cutter approach.
To learn how the Active Release Technique can help you, please contact our office!
