24 Dec How Active Release Technique Works to Relieve Pain
Pain, stiffness, and lack of movement usually share a common factor: tight soft tissue. Tight muscles and scar tissue from injury, repetitive use, and poor posture can limit movement and cause pain. Bionic SportMed & Physiotherapy uses an active, manual treatment that we rely on: the Active Release Technique (ART).
But what exactly does ART do—and why is it so effective at easing pain? Let’s break it down.
What Is Active Release Technique?
ART is a specialized form of manual therapy that treats muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. It is used to pinpoint and release tight areas, adhesions, and scar tissue that restrict movement and cause pain.
It’s movement-based, unlike traditional massage. While actively moving, the therapist applies direct pressure to a specific tissue. It is this combination that makes ART so novel and potent.
What Causes Pain in Soft Tissue?
Discomfort develops when soft tissue is injured or inflamed. Common causes include:
- Repetitive movements (typing, lifting, running)
- Sports injuries
- Poor posture or ergonomics
- Muscle imbalances
- Old, improperly-treated injuries
If the body is recovering from an injury or trauma, scar tissue and adhesions can form. These adhesions can:
- Limit the range of motion.
- Reduce blood flow
- Trap nerves
- Induce abnormal muscle weakening or stiffening.
This causes pain, sudden stiffness, or a gradual loss of performance over time.
How Active Release Technique Relieves Pain
Identifying the Source of Pain: ART begins with a complete evaluation. Instead of addressing only symptoms, your therapist identifies which tissues are not moving correctly or are restricted. This specificity is among the reasons the true origin of pain is targeted.
Scar Tissue Release Fascia and: When the restriction is located, the therapist applies specific pressure to stretch or lengthen the connective tissue. This helps:
- Break up scar tissue.
- Restore normal tissue texture.
- Reduce abnormal tension
When adhesion is released, the tissues become mobile and functional as intended.
Restoring Proper Movement Patterns: Pain frequently alters how we move, leading to compensation patterns that put more strain on other parts. ART facilitates the recovery of proper biomechanics, allowing muscles and joints to function together normally.
Improved movement means:
- Less strain on surrounding tissues
- Reduced risk of re-injury
- Better overall function
Improving Blood Flow and Healing: Restricted tissue limits circulation. ART increases blood flow to the area, helping bring in oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing and carrying away waste products that can cause pain or inflammation.
Reducing Nerve Compression: Tight muscles or fascia can sometimes press on nearby nerves, causing symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or radiating pain. And while it’s not a cure, ART can free trapped nerves, providing quick relief from symptoms.
Conditions Commonly Treated With ART
Active Release Technique is applied as a treatment for various conditions, such as:
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Low back pain
- Sciatica
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Headaches and migraines
- Sports injuries and overuse conditions
It has become especially popular among athletes, desk workers, and those who experience chronic or recurrent pain.
What Does an ART Session Feel Like?
ART works very specifically, so you will feel moderate pressure/discomfort (especially in tight/injured areas). But the therapy is short, you are in control, and most patients feel better (move better and hurt less) quickly — often in a single session.
Your therapist will communicate with you throughout the treatment process and work within your comfort zone at all times.
Is Active Release Technique Right For You?
If you’re experiencing:
- Persistent muscle tightness
- Pain that is not better after resting or doing exercise that does not strain it
- Limited mobility
- Recurrent injuries
ART could be a good answer.
Book Your ART Assessment Today
Don’t let pain hold you back from your best performance or quality of life. Call Bionic SportMed & Physiotherapy to find out how Active Release Technique can help you get back to moving pain-free!