How Does Active Release Work?
When muscles are overused, they can sustain small tears, leading to scar tissue formation. This scar tissue can bind muscle fibers together, causing stiffness, weakness, or pain. Active Release works by releasing the tension caused by these adhesions, allowing the muscle to move freely and function properly.
A typical Active Release session involves:
- Assessment: The practitioner assesses the patient’s range of motion and identifies areas of tension or discomfort. The patient’s history, lifestyle, and physical activities are also taken into account.
- Treatment: Using their hands, the practitioner applies deep pressure to the affected muscle or soft tissue while instructing the patient to perform specific movements. This combination helps stretch and release the tissues, breaking up adhesions and restoring the muscle’s natural movement.
- Reevaluation: After treatment, the therapist reassesses the patient’s range of motion and pain level to determine if further sessions are required.
Benefits of Active Release for Muscle Pain and Tightness
Active Release offers numerous benefits for those dealing with muscle pain, tightness, and related conditions:
- Pain Relief: By addressing the root cause of pain—scar tissue and muscle tension—Active Release provides long-term relief rather than just masking the symptoms.
- Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion: Scar tissue can restrict mobility, making daily tasks and physical activities more difficult. Active Release helps free these restrictions, improving flexibility and range of motion.
- Enhanced Performance: For athletes, Active Release can make a significant difference in performance. By improving muscle function and flexibility, this treatment helps athletes recover faster and reduce the risk of future injuries.
- Faster Recovery: Active Release is commonly used to speed recovery from sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries, and other soft tissue conditions. By increasing blood flow to the treated area, it promotes faster healing.
- Holistic Treatment: As a non-invasive treatment option, Active Release does not rely on medication or surgery. It works with the body’s natural healing processes, offering a safe and effective alternative for many individuals.
Conditions Treated with Active Release
Active Release can effectively treat a variety of conditions linked to muscle pain and tightness, such as:
- Chronic back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder impingements
- Tennis elbow
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sciatica
- Tension headaches and migraines
What to Expect During and After Active Release Sessions
Active Release sessions typically last 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the severity of the issue and the area being treated. While patients may experience mild discomfort during treatment as the therapist applies deep pressure to the affected tissue, this discomfort usually subsides quickly. Most people report noticeable relief after just a few sessions.
Some patients may experience mild soreness in the treated muscles, similar to the soreness after a deep tissue massage. This is a normal reaction and typically resolves within a day or two.
Conclusion
Active Release is a powerful therapy for muscle pain and tightness, offering lasting relief by treating the underlying cause—scar tissue and adhesions. Whether you’re an athlete looking to improve performance or someone dealing with chronic pain, Active Release can help restore range of motion, accelerate recovery, and prevent future injuries.
If you’re struggling with muscle pain, restricted movement, or tension, consulting a certified Active Release practitioner could be a key step toward long-lasting relief. Through its holistic approach, Active Release empowers you to regain mobility and live a life free from pain.
