ART or active release technique is a form of massage therapy that deals with the soft tissue problems which result to many various muscle pains throughout the whole body of the patient. It is commonly used on athletes and active people as they are more prone to soft tissue issues than less active individuals.

Although this type of therapeutic massage uses some of the common methods of massage strokes and techniques, it distinguishes itself apart from the other therapies as it uses motion and coordination from the patient. Unlike with most conventional types of massage therapy where the patient lies or sits down during the whole duration of the massage session, ART or active release technique relies on the movement of the patient in enhancing the condition of the muscles by gently working on the different muscle groups within the human body. It is similar with passive yoga although this type of technique simply moves and positions the body of the patient for a much better access on releasing muscle tensions and healing injured areas of the body.

This type of therapeutic massage was developed by P. Michael Leahy. As a chiropractor, he noticed the need for a good massage therapy that can address and correct the injuries caused on the soft tissues of his patients. Active release technique was successfully developed and practiced on his patients and a satisfying result percentage of a 90 percent success rate in treating patients with this natural treatment technique was achieved.

The massage therapist works on various points within each muscle groups to correct and improve every issue within the patient’s body. Similar with acupressure, the different key points in the body are focused during the therapy where the patient is partially clothed. The 500 different protocols are used on a patient’s body to treat almost any type of physical problem due to soft tissue injuries or muscle pains. This technique which addresses cases similar to sports massage, is popular in treating acute and chronic conditions that is why most athletes add it up on their regular medical care.

Like any other type of massage therapy, most benefits are received by the patient right after the massage session or after several series of therapy. Whole body and mind relaxation is one of the most common benefits any patient can acquire from active release technique. The massage therapist works and maneuvers with different hand techniques along with the movement of the patient’s body on different positions. As the therapist works on the different muscle groups that contain layers of various muscles, each muscle loosens up and releases tension which gives the body a better condition as it releases stress and relieves chronic muscle pain.

Even if you’re not the active type of person, the relaxing and energizing effects and benefits of this type of massage therapy is definitely a must-try for you. You may not be an athlete or an active individual but you surely have muscle pain issues that need to be treated and relieved.

Author Bio: I write for TIR Massage Stone, the leading hot stone massage kit supplies provider. They carry products such as massage stones, as well as many other accessories for hot and cold stone therapy.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: hot stone massage kit, hot stone massage