Break Through Restrictions. Restore Mobility. Reduce Pain.

Active Release Technique

Active Release Technique (ART®)

Break Through Restrictions. Restore Mobility. Reduce Pain.

What Is Active Release Technique?

Active Release Technique (ART®) is a patented, movement-based manual therapy designed to treat soft tissue disorders resulting from overuse, injury, or repetitive strain. It involves a combination of precise pressure and guided patient movement to break up adhesions (scar tissue), restore optimal muscle and fascia function, and reduce pain.

ART targets the muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and nerves — making it especially effective for treating chronic tension, nerve entrapment, and limited range of motion caused by scar tissue or inflammation.

Developed by Dr. Michael Leahy, ART is widely used by licensed therapists, chiropractors, and sports medicine professionals around the world, particularly in athletic and rehabilitation settings.

What Does ART Help With?

ART is used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, especially those involving restricted mobility, tightness, or nerve compression.

Common conditions treated with ART include:

  • Neck and back pain

  • Frozen shoulder / shoulder impingement

  • Sciatica

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Tennis/golfer’s elbow

  • Shin splints

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Knee pain (patellar tracking issues, IT band syndrome)

  • Headaches resulting from muscular tension

  • Numbness, tingling, or nerve entrapment

Who Benefits from Active Release Technique?

ART is beneficial for anyone experiencing soft tissue dysfunction or pain — from athletes and weekend warriors to office workers and those recovering from surgery or injury.

It is especially helpful for:

  • Individuals with repetitive strain injuries

  • Those recovering from sports injuries or trauma

  • Clients with limited range of motion or postural tension

  • People experiencing numbness, tingling, or nerve-related pain

  • Active individuals looking to enhance performance and prevent injury

ART is a results-driven therapy—many clients notice improvements in range of motion, strength, and pain after just a few sessions.

How Does a Session Work?

During an ART session, the therapist will:

  1. Assess the area of concern through palpation and range-of-motion testing.

  2. Identify areas of tension or fibrosis (scar tissue).

  3. Apply manual pressure to the restricted tissue while guiding you through specific movements to break up adhesions.

Sessions typically last 30–60 minutes, depending on the area treated and the severity of the condition. ART may be combined with other therapies like neuromuscular massage or manual osteopathy for a comprehensive treatment plan.

Scientific Support & References

ART has been supported in clinical settings for improving soft tissue function and treating overuse injuries. While high-level randomized trials are still emerging, the technique has shown promise in both research and extensive clinical use.

  • James, C. (2006). “Active Release Techniques for Overuse Injuries.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 10(3), 197–206.

  • Howitt, S., Wong, J., & Zabukovec, S. (2006). “The conservative treatment of trigger thumb using Active Release Techniques® and Graston Technique®.” Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 50(4), 249.

  • Hammer, W.I. (2007). Functional Soft-Tissue Examination and Treatment by Manual Methods. Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Why Choose ART at Avalon Wellness & Performance?

At Avalon, our certified ART practitioners apply this advanced technique with care and precision. We combine it with other manual therapies to ensure you get targeted relief and long-term results.

Book Your ART Session Today
Experience the power of movement-based soft tissue therapy.