Active Release Technique (A.R.T.)
is a highly successful systematic approach to injuries of muscle, tendons, nerves and the surrounding soft tissues. Active Release Technique uses a medically patented massage technique to treat soft tissue adhesions with the aid of muscle specific movements to correctly identify the exact muscle, ligament, tendon, nerve, or fascia involved.
A.R.T is a deep muscle therapy that relieves tension and promotes proper muscle motion, while reducing scar tissue formation, muscle imbalance, and nerve entrapments. Every A.R.T session is actually a combination of examination and treatment.
A.R.T. providers uses their hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. The provider then treats the abnormal tissues by combining precisely directed tension and very specific patient movements.
These treatment protocols are unique to A.R.T. and include over 500
specific moves. This simply means that Dr. Shepard can treat anywhere, from the muscles in the bottom of a patient’s foot to muscles inside the mouth, responsible for causing headaches and altered jaw mechanics, and everywhere in between.
Dr. Shepard is full body certified and annually undergoes Active Release Technique recertification.
The three most common mechanisms of injury are:
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Acute trauma
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Constant pressure
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Repetitive motion
All three mechanisms play a part of the cumulative injury cycle. Soft tissue restrictions in the body change or adapt over time. These changes are predictable and can be felt by the doctor. Chronic or “older” injuries actually feel different from acute or “newer” ones.
Active Release Technique has proven to be very effective for professional athletes and is widely used in professional sports such as the NFL, NBA, NHL, Ironman triathlons, professional volleyball, figure skating, and many more.
Contact Dr. Shepard today to schedule an appointment and see if Active Release Technique may assist you in reaching your health goals!