Probably the biggest set-back in a runner’s ability to compete is an interruption in their training schedule. Imagine being in training for your big race and losing several weeks of valuable training time due to an overuse injury. With Active Release Technique (ART), this complication in interrupted training can not only be avoided but can also more quickly heal an overuse injury that has already developed.
Exactly What is Active Release Technique?
ART involves active massage treatments that are a lot different than passage massage treatments. Instead of treating a general area, the provider will use his or her hands to feel for abnormal or damaged tissue in muscle, fascia, tendons, ligaments or nerves. Abnormalities include scar tissue, adhesions, and dense tissue. An overuse or (chronic) injury, is an accumulation of microtraumas, or small tears, that occur repeatedly to injury.
Every ART session is actually a combination of examination and treatment. The ART provider uses his or her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Abnormal tissues are treated by combining precisely directed tension with very specific patient movements.
Tell Me More About the History of Active Release Techniques
ART has been developed, refined, and patented by P. Michael Leahy, DC, CCSP. Dr. Leahy began developing and documenting Active Release Techniques in 1985 under the initial name of “Myofascial Release”. Since then, the technique has been patented under the name Active Release Techniques, and is widely taught and practiced around the world. Dr. Leahy noticed that his patients’ symptoms seemed to be related to changes in their soft tissue that could be felt by hand. By observing how muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves responded to different types of work, Dr. Leahy was able to consistently resolve over 90% of his patients’ problems. He now teaches and certifies health care providers all over the world to use ART.
Warding Off Potential Time Lost to Injury
As previously mentioned, using ART as a part of your regular training regimen can keep you on track with your training schedule! Many successful athletes stay fit by preventing injury and staying injury free. It’s not unusual for a runner to not even realize that a problem is developing until there is a symptom. Oftentimes, a runner won’t even realize that they are headed toward an overuse injury until it’s too late. This is where Active Release Technique can be the most beneficial – warding off potential time lost to injury.
Oftentimes, by that time it’s too late and the injury has magnified.
Where Can I Find a Certified ART Provider?
Dr. Andrew Hospodar IV, D.C., M. S., L. Ac at the Ohio Sports & Spine Institute Ltd is a certified Active Release Technique provider. Here is a snapshot of Dr. Hospodar’s resume:
- Graduate, Walsh University
- Graduate, Finger Lakes School of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine
- Graduate, New York Chiropractic College
- Certified, American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians
- Certified, Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
- Certified, American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture
- Certified, Active Release Technique (ART)
- Team Physician for local area high school track and field, cross country, football, baseball, wrestling teams
