physical therapist examining a boys wrist

Active Release Technique (ART)

Active release techniques is a practical, movement-based manual therapy that treats soft tissue injuries, including breaking up scar tissue and improving range of motion.

What is active release therapy?

Active release therapy (ART) is based on scientific evidence that adhesions between the muscles and other connective tissues can develop due to injury, causing the motion of muscles or joints to be altered, resulting in symptoms that include: pain, weakness, reduced range of motion, numbness, and tingling.

Physical therapists certified in active release therapy use this hands-on technique to help break up and remodel scar tissue to improve range of motion and decrease pain.

Is active release therapy the proper treatment?

Patients with a wide variety of symptoms related to chronic pain, muscle spasm or scar tissue buildup may benefit from active release technique.  In addition, ART can be used to improve sports performance with tasks such as golf, running, and walking. Common diagnoses that can benefit from active release therapy are:

close up of female hands holding a young boys foot

Benefits of active release technique therapy

The benefits of active release therapy include:

  • Decrease pain caused by soft tissue injuries
  • Break up scar tissue
  • Improve range of motion

What to expect

Your first physical therapy appointment is about creating a personalized treatment plan based on your health history, diagnosis, and goals. Here’s what you can expect at your first physical therapy appointment:

Your first appointment will last about an hour. Please arrive 15 minutes early.

If applicable, bring your physician referral or prescription, insurance card, paperwork, ID, and co-payment.

At your appointment, we’ll do an initial evaluation and discuss your care plan.

*Services are not available at every location. Visit our Locations page for more details.

Physical therapy insurance & payment options

We work with most major insurance providers. Although coverage will vary from plan to plan, many physical therapy, occupational therapy and speciality therapy programs are covered under insurance. Learn more about our insurance coverage and self-pay options for physical therapy.