Physical therapy in Smithtown, NY

Active Release Technique (ART®) Chiropractors in Smithtown, NY

Active Release Technique Chiropractors in Selden, NY as well 

ART to right lateral elbow

What is Active Release Technique (ART®)?

ART® is a form of manual therapy that can be used to decrease pain, improve soft tissue mobility and decrease nagging trigger points. It begins with the provider determining which tissues are abnormal and pinning it with their fingers. The tissue is then shortened, pressure is applied from the provider and the patient is instructed to move into a position that lengthens the targeted tissue. 

 

What does ART® do to the tissues?

When the chiropractors provide ART® to the injured tissue, it is the belief that the technique will do the following:

  • Release the tension that created the trigger point
  • Restore normal range of motion to restricted and adhesive tissues
  • Improve the fascial, nervous, vascular and lymphatic system by releasing restrictions in surrounding tissues 
  • Improve function of muscular tissue by restoring normal tissue length

 

What body parts and injuries can ART® be used on? (not limited to)

  • Body parts:

    • Neck – upper trapezius, scalenes, levator scapula, suboccipitals 
    • Shoulder – all rotator cuff muscles, biceps, triceps, pectoralis major and minor, subclavius
    • Elbow – common wrist extensors, common wrist flexors, biceps, supinator, pronator teres 
    • Mid-back – thoracic paraspinals, middle trapezius, rhomboids major and minor, lower trapezius, latissimus dorsi 
    • Low back – quadratus lumborum, lumbar paraspinals
    • Hips – piriformis, gluteus maximus, medius and minimus, TFL, psoas (hip flexors)
    • Knee/Thigh – quadriceps, hamstrings, adductors
    • Calf/foot – gastrocnemius, soleus, peroneus longus and brevis, plantar fascia, anterior tibialis (shin splints), posterior tibialis 
  • Injuries:

    • Muscle spasms in the neck and back
    • Headaches
    • Postural dysfunction
    • Rotator cuff strain or tendonitis
    • Tennis elbow
    • Carpal Tunnel 
    • Groin strain
    • Hamstring strain
    • Quadriceps strain
    • Patellar tendonitis 
    • Piriformis syndrome
    • Shin splints
    • Plantar fasciitis 
    • Sciatica

 

What does the patient feel?

During ART® treatment, the patient will likely feel discomfort under the ART® provider’s fingers. The finger will apply pressure to a sensitive trigger point and when the tissue is then lengthened, there can be increased pressure in that area. This uncomfortable position is typically held for 6 seconds and then the tissue is released and discomfort will subside. Unfortunately, this will be performed a total of three times! However, typically nearly immediate release of tension will be noticed by the patient following the treatment. Our Active Release Technique chiropractors will make sure you are as comfortable as possible during the process.  

 

Can ART® help with my sports performance or exercise routine?

ART® has been shown in the research to improve circulation and increase soft tissue mobility. With this, there will be improved power output, muscle fiber recruitment and functionality of the muscle unit to assist in enhancing sports performance and muscle strength during lifting. Additionally, it helps correct muscle imbalances allowing for one to run, sprint and lift more efficiently, ultimately reducing the risk for new or recurring injuries. It is often used by our ART®  providers in Smithtown, NY and Selden NY when treating high-level athletes, runners, crossfitters, orange theory members, yogi’s and more! 

 

Is ART® combined with additional treatment?

It is important that ART® be followed up with additional manual techniques to further increase mobility, as well as a thorough therapeutic exercise routine to improve contributing factors. ART® is a very successful treatment option, however, research shows augmenting it with additional exercises creates the best results. Therefore, the provider will implement exercises will typically focus on strengthening weak tissues, as well as increasing flexibility of restricted tissues. 

 

Where can I receive ART®  treatment? 

We have skilled and certified Active Release Technique chiropractors in our Smithtown and Selden locations. They are highly experienced in utilizing ART® to the aforementioned body parts and injuries. They are head chiropractors of Stony Brook University athletics and implement ART® into their treatments for these athletes. Additionally, ART® is used with those who experienced injuries during work injury or motor vehicle accidents and more. If you feel you will benefit from ART® , make an appointment today to consult with our ART® certified chiropractors. 

ART for right tennis elbow

Summary
Service Type
Active Release Technique
Area
Manual Therapy
Description
Active Release Technique (ART) is a formed of skilled manual therapy that our experienced chiropractors implement into their treatment for various diagnoses.