Active Release Technique (ART) and Graston Technique are hands-on soft tissue treatments for tight, sore or irritated muscles, tendons and the tissue around them. ART is done with the practitioner’s hands while you move; Graston uses smooth stainless steel instruments.
Both are part of sports injury focused chiropractic at our clinic and are usually combined with exercise and other treatment, not used alone.
Active Release Technique (ART)
Your practitioner applies pressure to a specific muscle or tendon with their thumb or fingers, then has you move the area so the tissue lengthens under that contact. It targets one structure at a time, so it suits problems you can point to: a tight hip flexor, a sore forearm or a stiff calf.
Graston Technique
Graston is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy. The practitioner glides a shaped steel tool over the skin, using an emollient, to work on the tissue underneath. It lets them cover a larger area and feel changes in tissue texture.
What they are commonly used for
- Tendon problems such as tennis elbow, Achilles and patellar tendon pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Muscle strains once the early painful stage has passed
- Tightness and reduced range of motion from training or repetitive work
- Stiffness around old scars or past injuries
What it feels like
Expect firm pressure and some discomfort on tender spots. It should stay tolerable, so say so if it does not. Afterward the area can feel sore for a day or two, and Graston can leave temporary redness or small bruises.
Who should mention it first
Tell your practitioner if you take blood thinners, bruise easily, have a skin condition or open wound in the area, or have had a recent fracture or surgery. They may change the technique or choose a different treatment.
Your practitioner will tell you whether either technique suits your injury after assessing you. Neither is a guaranteed fix, and most plans pair them with strengthening.
Want to know if soft tissue treatment could help?