What Is Active Release Techniques?
Active Release Techniques (ART®) is a patented, evidence-based soft tissue system that identifies and corrects adhesions and mechanical dysfunction within muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and peripheral nerves.
When soft tissues become injured — through repetitive strain, postural overload, sports trauma, or chronic tension — they can develop scar tissue and fibrotic adhesions. These adhesions restrict motion, reduce blood flow, and create tension or entrapment around nerves. Left untreated, this leads to pain, weakness, reduced performance, and recurring injuries.
ART® directly targets these dysfunctional areas through:
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Precise tactile contact on affected structures
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Guided patient movement through specific ranges of motion
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Active tension and release of problematic tissues
The goal is to restore optimal soft tissue gliding mechanics, reduce nerve irritation, and re-establish healthy movement patterns.
This makes ART® the Gold Standard and one of the most effective treatment options for:
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Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
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Tendinopathies (e.g., Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff)
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Sciatica and peripheral nerve entrapment
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Myofascial restrictions and muscle imbalances
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Headaches from neck tension or TMJ issues
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Chronic low back and postural pain
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Plantar fasciitis and foot dysfunction
ART® is widely used in professional sports for rapid recovery and movement optimization.
What You Can Expect
Your treatment is provided by Dr. Sean Starr, DC — Certified ART® Provider who follows a structured, clinical process:
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Advanced Functional Assessment
Dr. Starr will evaluate tissue texture, joint motion, and symptom provocation to pinpoint the exact structure causing dysfunction.
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Specific Tissue Lengthening + Compression
You actively move the affected area while Dr. Starr applies tension along the restricted tissue, releasing adhesions and improving tissue glide. -
Neuromuscular Reinforcement
Corrective exercises or stabilization techniques may be added to support long-term structural change and prevent re-injury.
Treatments are highly targeted and efficient — often producing rapid changes in mobility and symptom relief.
About Your Active Release Provider
Dr. Sean Starr, DC is a Certified ART® Provider with extensive post-graduate training in musculoskeletal health, sports injuries, spine biomechanics, and performance-based care. He has taken multiple trainings in Full Body ART Certifications.
His focus is on addressing the underlying mechanical cause of pain, not just the symptoms.
Schedule Your ART® Session Today
If you’re dealing with pain that keeps returning, stiffness that won’t resolve, or a long-standing overuse injury — ART® may be the missing piece.
📍 Available at Active Health in Victoria, BC #102-1625 Oak Bay Ave.
💻 Book your ART® appointment online
📞 Or call us at (250) 382-7246
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ART® painful?
Some techniques create a strong, therapeutic sensation — but pressure is always adjusted to your comfort level. Many patients feel immediate relief afterward.
How is ART® different from deep tissue massage?
Massage is broad and pressure-based. ART® is tissue-specific, movement-based, and clinically targeted to release adhesions and nerve entrapments.
What’s the success rate?
Because the approach isolates the exact source of restriction, many patients experience significant improvement in 2–6 sessions depending on complexity.
Does ART® improve performance?
Absolutely — improved tissue glide and nerve mobility translates to better strength output, stability, and range of motion.
Is it covered by benefits?
Yes — ART® is delivered by our licensed Chiropractor Dr. Sean Starr and is covered under most Chiropractic extended insurance plans.
Contact Us for Active Release Techniques Therapy from Our Chiropractor in Victoria, BC
Active Release Therapy provides profound beneficial effects for patients suffering from various conditions, helping them achieve reduced pain while enjoying other benefits such as improved mobility in daily performance. Dr. Sean Starr, DC can help you by providing professional care at Active Health and Wellness. If you live in Victoria or the surrounding areas, call us today (250) 382-7246 to schedule your first consultation.
