Active Release Technique (ART) in Twin Falls, Idaho
Active Release Technique, often called ART, is a hands-on soft tissue method that combines precise pressure with specific movements. It is one of Dr. Madsen’s specialties at Canyon Springs Chiropractic and a natural fit for patients in Twin Falls and the Magic Valley dealing with tight, overworked, or injured muscles, tendons, and nerves.
What Is Active Release Technique?
Muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the fascia around them can develop tight, restricted areas after an injury, repetitive use, or long periods of poor posture. These restrictions can limit how freely tissues glide over one another and may contribute to pain, stiffness, weakness, and sometimes tingling when a nerve is involved.
During an ART session, the provider locates the restricted tissue by feel, applies targeted pressure, and then guides you through a specific movement that lengthens the tissue under that pressure. Each treatment is tailored to the exact area and movement pattern involved.
Conditions ART May Help
ART is commonly used for soft tissue problems such as:
- Shoulder pain and rotator cuff strain
- Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
- Carpal tunnel symptoms and wrist strain
- Neck and upper back tension
- Lower back and hip tightness, including the muscles around the SI joint
- Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendon problems
- Shin splints, IT band tightness, and hamstring strains
- Repetitive strain from work, sports, or hobbies
Your exam will show whether ART is the right tool for your symptoms, or whether another approach will serve you better.
What to Expect During an ART Visit
Your first visit starts with a conversation about your symptoms, activities, and goals, followed by an exam of how the painful area moves. If ART is a good fit, treatment usually focuses on a few specific areas per visit.
You may feel firm pressure and a stretching sensation as the tissue lengthens. Mild soreness afterward, similar to a workout, is common and usually fades within a day or two.
Many treatment plans combine ART with:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Extremity adjusting for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, or ankle
- Other soft tissue therapies such as myofascial release, IASTM, or cupping
- Home stretches and strengthening exercises
ART for Athletes and Active Adults
Runners, lifters, golfers, high school athletes, and weekend warriors often come to us when a nagging strain will not settle down. ART targets the specific tissue involved so you can work toward getting back to training. Learn more about our sports injury care.
ART for Work and Repetitive Strain
Jobs that involve lifting, driving, typing, or repeating the same motion all day can create tension that builds over time. ART can be part of a plan to ease that tension and help you move more comfortably on the job. See how we help with work injuries.
Active Release Technique FAQs
Does ART hurt?
ART involves firm pressure and a stretching sensation, and some areas can feel tender while they are being treated. Dr. Madsen adjusts the pressure to your comfort throughout the session.
How many ART sessions will I need?
It varies with the area treated, how long the problem has been present, and your activity level. Some patients notice a change within a few visits. We will check your progress each visit and adjust the plan as needed.
Is ART the same as massage?
No. Massage generally works across broad areas to relax muscles. ART focuses on specific restricted tissues and combines targeted pressure with active movement.
Can ART be combined with chiropractic adjustments?
Yes. Many patients receive ART alongside adjustments, since restricted soft tissue and restricted joints often show up together.
Schedule Your ART Visit in Twin Falls
If a tight, painful muscle or tendon is holding you back, we are here to help. Canyon Springs Chiropractic serves Twin Falls, Jerome, Kimberly, Filer, Buhl, Burley, and the greater Magic Valley. New patients can read what to expect on your first visit before coming in.