Active Release Technique ( ART )

author : AMSSM

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Learn how ART therapy can provide an alternative treatment for conditions such as sprains, strains, tendonitis and tendinosis.

By Margarita Sevilla, MD CAQ

Member AMSSM

ART is a patented technique that deals with soft tissue conditions, such as sprains, strains, tendonitis and tendinosis.

Triathletes in particular are prone to these conditions due to the nature of the sport; combining the three disciplines and therefore engaging multiple muscle groups. Even for the shorter distance and more so for the half iron and iron-distance triathlons, triathletes are required to train long hours and sometimes more than one session during the day. Due to this, it is easy to suffer from the conditions mentioned above.

ART was developed by Dr. Leahy, DC as a result of noticing both improvement or worsening of his patients, depending on how the muscles, tendons or ligaments felt by hand.

ART is a combination of examination and treatment. The qualified health care provider uses his/her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Abnormal tissues are treated by a combination of directed tension and specific movements.

Initially, the provider feels the tissue and makes the diagnosis; is this a sprain? A tear? Are certain nerves being pinched by the swollen tissue? Once the diagnosis is made, specific manual treatments are instituted.

There have only been anecdotal reports on ART and no randomized controlled trials, which are the gold standard in research, are available to date especially to compare to the more standard treatments of physical therapy, injections, cryotherapy or simple rest.

As with any treatment, it is advised to first consult your provider to rule out more dangerous conditions such as stress fractures or conditions that would benefit from surgery, such as certain ligament tears.

For many conditions, imaging, such as x-ray, an MRI or a U/S is also advised, especially if the diagnosis is uncertain.

It is very important to analyze the reason why the triathlete is suffering from each condition; is it over-training, increasing mileage too fast, inadequate bike fit, inadequate swimming stroke?  This way, more injuries can be prevented and the athlete can return to training as soon as possible.

To find qualified providers that are trained in ART, go to www.activerelease.com. 
 

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date: March 16, 2009