What is an Active Release Techniques (ART) session like?

Every Active Release Techniques session combines examination and treatment. The Active Release Techniques provider uses his or her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
ART uses precisely directed tension and specific patient movements to treat abnormal tissues. These treatments have more than 500 specific moves unique to ART. They allow the provider to identify and correct your specific problem. ART is not a cooker-cutter approach — it’s a uniquely individualized plan of treatment.
ART is non-invasive, very safe, has virtually no side effects, and has a record of producing good results. Treatments take about 8-15 minutes per area treated. Patients usually remark that, “it hurts good.” However, keep in mind that ART is not a cure-all. Corrective exercises are necessary to make sure that your condition doesn’t reoccur, preventing you from having to be treated over and over again.
Treatments can feel uncomfortable during the movement phases as the scar tissue or adhesions “break-up.” This discomfort is temporary and subsides almost immediately after the treatment. It’s common to feel a duplication of your pain symptoms during the treatment (a good indication that the problem has been identified).