Active Release Technique in Charlotte
Active Release Technique in South Charlotte, NC breaks up scar tissue and restores muscle function with hands-on care from Dr. Craig Schulman. Book online.
Chiropractic Fitness
Active Release Technique in Charlotte
Active Release Technique (ART) is a cutting-edge, hands-on therapy designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and address soft tissue injuries at their source. By targeting scar tissue and tension in muscles, tendons, and ligaments, ART helps patients recover faster and move more freely. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, a sports injury, or repetitive strain, this proven technique offers a safe, non-invasive solution.
How it works
What to expect with active release technique
- Step 1
Movement-based evaluation
We assess the texture, tension, and movement of your muscles, tendons, and fascia by hand to locate the adhesions and scar tissue contributing to your pain or restricted motion.
- Step 2
Targeted hands-on release
Dr. Schulman applies precise pressure to the restricted tissue while guiding you through specific movements — the combination that makes ART different from passive soft-tissue work.
- Step 3
Care built around recovery
ART is combined with chiropractic adjustments and other soft-tissue therapies as your exam indicates, so improvements carry over into your training, work, and daily routine.
Why patients choose it
Benefits of active release technique
Relieves pain caused by muscle tension, nerve entrapment, or scar tissue
Restores range of motion by breaking up adhesions and tight tissue
Speeds recovery from sports injuries and repetitive strain
Helps reduce the risk of reinjury by improving muscle and joint function
Drug-free, non-invasive, and entirely hands-on
Complements chiropractic adjustments so joints and soft tissue are addressed together
The basics
About active release technique
Active Release Technique is a hands-on, movement-based soft-tissue treatment. When muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, or nerves are overworked or injured, the body lays down scar tissue and adhesions that bind tissues together, restrict motion, and irritate nearby nerves. ART is designed to find those restrictions and release them.
During a session, the provider uses their hands to evaluate the texture and tightness of the affected tissue, then applies precise pressure while guiding you through specific movements. That combination of tension and motion helps break up adhesions so tissues glide the way they should — which is why ART is commonly used for repetitive strain injuries, sports injuries, and nerve entrapments like sciatica or carpal tunnel syndrome.
At Chiropractic Fitness in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Craig Schulman — certified in Active Release Technique since 2013 and a Board-Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® — pairs ART with chiropractic adjustments, so both the joints and the soft tissue around them are addressed in one plan. Athletes and desk workers alike visit our south Charlotte office for this care.
Free Chiropractic Consultation
Free
Dr. Schulman will sit down and visit with you about your problem to see if we can help. If he determines that you are a candidate for chiropractic care, Dr. Schulman will explain any costs before moving forward with any evaluation or treatment.
If for any reason Dr. Schulman doesn’t think we are the right option, he can refer you to the appropriate place. This consultation is always FREE OF CHARGE.
Don’t let pain hold you back—take the first step toward lasting relief and improved performance. Book your appointment today and experience the benefits of Active Release Technique for yourself!
Why Choose a Chiropractor Who Offers A.R.T.?
Seeing a chiropractor trained in Active Release Technique (ART) combines expertise in spinal health and soft tissue therapy, offering comprehensive care for pain relief and improved mobility. By addressing both joint misalignments and surrounding soft tissues, ART targets the root causes of pain and restricted movement.
Dr. Craig Schulman has been certified in A.R.T. since 2013! Get started on your path to optimal health today.
What is Active Release Therapy?
Active Release Therapy (ART) is a highly specialized, hands-on treatment designed to address soft tissue injuries and musculoskeletal pain caused by overuse, repetitive strain, or trauma. This technique involves precise manipulation and movement of muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves to reduce scar tissue, restore mobility, and improve overall function. By targeting the root cause of pain and restricted movement, ART helps patients experience faster recovery and long-term relief. Commonly used by athletes, office workers, and anyone dealing with chronic or acute pain, Active Release Therapy offers a safe and effective way to optimize physical health and performance.
Key Benefits of Active Release Therapy
- Pain Relief: Effectively alleviates pain caused by muscle tension, nerve entrapment, or scar tissue.
- Improved Mobility: Restores range of motion by breaking up adhesions and releasing tight tissues.
- Enhanced Recovery: Speeds up healing from injuries, allowing you to return to daily activities or sports more quickly.
- Prevention of Future Injuries: Improves muscle and joint function, reducing the risk of reinjury.
- Non-Invasive Solution: Provides a natural, drug-free treatment option for pain and movement issues.
Common Conditions Treated with Active Release Technique
Active Release Technique (ART) is a versatile therapy used to address a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions caused by overuse, repetitive strain, or injury. By targeting scar tissue and adhesions, ART helps restore proper function and alleviate pain in various areas of the body. Whether you’re an athlete recovering from sports-related injuries or dealing with chronic pain from everyday activities, ART can provide effective relief.
Common conditions treated with ART include:
- Muscle and Joint Pain: ART reduces tension and scar tissue in overworked or injured muscles, relieving pain and improving flexibility. This is particularly effective for conditions like chronic back or shoulder pain, where adhesions limit movement and cause discomfort.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries: For issues like carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow, ART targets the adhesions caused by repetitive motion. By releasing tight tissues and improving blood flow, ART restores normal function and reduces inflammation.
- Tendon and Ligament Issues: Conditions like plantar fasciitis and rotator cuff injuries are often caused by micro-tears and inflammation in tendons or ligaments. ART helps by releasing tension in surrounding tissues, reducing stress on the affected area, and promoting faster healing.
- Nerve Entrapments: When nerves are compressed by tight muscles or scar tissue, it can lead to conditions like sciatica or thoracic outlet syndrome. ART releases these compressions, freeing the nerve and alleviating symptoms like numbness, tingling, or shooting pain.
- Sports Injuries: Sprains, strains, and overuse injuries are common among athletes. ART helps by restoring proper tissue function and improving range of motion, allowing athletes to recover faster and prevent reinjury.
- Postural Imbalances: Poor posture from prolonged sitting or improper ergonomics can lead to chronic pain and stiffness. ART addresses tight or overcompensating muscles, improving alignment and reducing strain on the body.
- Scar Tissue Adhesions: Scar tissue from injuries or surgeries can limit mobility and cause discomfort. ART breaks down these adhesions, restoring normal tissue movement and reducing pain.
ART is highly effective for these conditions because it not only addresses the symptoms but also resolves the underlying issues causing pain and dysfunction. By targeting the root cause of pain and dysfunction, ART not only provides immediate relief but also supports long-term recovery and injury prevention. It’s a safe, non-invasive therapy suitable for a wide range of patients.
Active Release Technique vs. Traditional Massage
Patients in Charlotte often ask whether ART is just a deep massage. Both are drug-free, hands-on soft-tissue treatments — and we offer massage therapy at our office as well — but they work differently and serve different goals.
| Active Release Technique | Traditional Massage | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary goal | Release specific adhesions and scar tissue that restrict movement | Promote relaxation, circulation, and general muscle relief |
| How it works | Targeted pressure combined with active, guided movement | Broad strokes and kneading while the muscles stay at rest |
| Focus | Specific structures identified during your evaluation | Whole muscle groups or regions |
| Typical use | Repetitive strain, sports injuries, nerve entrapment, restricted motion | Stress relief, muscle tension, recovery support |
| Provider | A provider certified in the ART method | A massage therapist |
| What it feels like | Brief, focused pressure that can feel intense but productive | Generally soothing and relaxing |
Neither approach is “better” — they address different problems, and many patients benefit from both within a single care plan. Your evaluation at our Charlotte office determines which soft-tissue approach fits your condition.
What it helps
Conditions we treat with active release technique
What is Active Release Technique (ART)?+
Active Release Technique, or ART, is a hands-on chiropractic treatment that focuses on relieving tension in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. At Chiropractic Fitness in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Craig Schulman uses ART to break up scar tissue, restore mobility, and relieve chronic pain naturally.
How does Active Release Technique work?+
During ART, Dr. Craig Schulman applies targeted pressure while guiding you through specific movements. This combination helps release adhesions and scar tissue that can restrict motion and cause pain. Many patients in Charlotte experience quick improvements in flexibility, performance, and pain relief after ART sessions.
What conditions can Active Release Technique treat?+
Active Release Technique is highly effective for repetitive strain injuries, sports injuries, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and chronic muscle tightness. Patients searching for “ART therapy in Charlotte” often turn to Chiropractic Fitness for lasting relief.
Is Active Release Technique painful?+
ART can sometimes feel intense because it targets tight or restricted soft tissue, but most patients describe it as a “good pain” that brings relief. At Chiropractic Fitness, Dr. Craig Schulman customizes the pressure and movements to your comfort level, ensuring safe and effective results.
Who can benefit from Active Release Technique?+
Anyone experiencing muscle stiffness, reduced mobility, or soft tissue injuries can benefit from ART. Athletes in Charlotte, NC, often choose ART to recover faster and improve performance, while everyday patients find relief from chronic pain and repetitive strain.
How is Active Release Technique different from massage therapy?+
While massage therapy focuses on relaxation and circulation, Active Release Technique specifically targets adhesions, scar tissue, and restricted muscles that affect mobility and cause pain. Patients at Chiropractic Fitness appreciate ART because it provides faster, longer-lasting results compared to general massage.
How much does Active Release Technique cost in Charlotte, NC?+
The cost of ART varies depending on the length of your session and treatment plan. At Chiropractic Fitness, we offer affordable options to make care accessible. To learn more about pricing and schedule a consultation with Dr. Craig Schulman, contact our Charlotte office today.
Are chiropractors doctors?+
Yes — chiropractors are doctors of chiropractic (DC), licensed healthcare providers who complete graduate-level training in anatomy, diagnosis, and hands-on treatment. They are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medication, focusing instead on drug-free care. Dr. Craig Schulman is a Doctor of Chiropractic and Board-Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician® who has been certified in Active Release Technique since 2013.
What's the difference between ART and trigger point therapy?+
Both are hands-on soft-tissue treatments. Trigger point therapy applies sustained pressure to specific knots within a muscle, while ART combines pressure with active movement to release adhesions along the full length of muscles, tendons, and fascia. At Chiropractic Fitness in Charlotte, Dr. Schulman may use one or both depending on what your evaluation shows.
Do you take insurance for Active Release Technique in Charlotte?+
Costs vary with your care plan, and Chiropractic Fitness accepts health insurance as well as auto-injury, work-injury, and Medicare coverage. Our team will help you understand your benefits before care begins — see the Payment Options page under Resources on this site, or call our Charlotte office with questions about your plan.
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Patient reviews
What our Charlotte patients say
“Definitely recommend him 100%”
“Quick service. Extremely nice and professional.”
“I came into Dr. Schulman's office with severe sciatica pain, heel pain on right, and such a tight neck that I couldn't sleep at night from throbbing aches and pains. Now that I've been seeing Dr. Schulman for 3 months now, I'm running with my dogs again, and getting back into the gym without any back or neck pain. Best decision I ever made for self care! Highly recommend!”