ART therapy

[Swiss Miss]

Some of you know that I have been dealing with back/hip injuries for almost 18 months now. It started when I was training for a half marathon in the Spring of 2005, and as of now I am still in treatment for these issues. I have a degenerative disc, which I've had 6 epidural injections for(3 last summer, 3 this summer). The first series helped temporarily, the second series this summer, offered only a little relief with the back pain. I also have pain/tightness in my glutes and lots of scar tissue from some glute muscle strains.

Anyway, my doctor referred my to a chiropractor who just started using ART therapy on me. Active Relase Technique is a specific type of myofacial release/massage. I am starting to feel a little better, and was wondering if anyone else had experience with this. My doctor is great, and treats a lot of professional athletes around here (Clevland Browns players- no mean spirited omments about the Browns, now:p).

I am really hoping this helps. My doc has been analyzing the biomechanics of how I run and of course, my hip flexors and adductors are causing half of the problem. Does this sound familiar to anyone? Don't we all have tight hammys, hip flexors, etc? Maybe I need a good yoga class!

[Pink]

Yes, both the Pinks have had experience with ART. Some PTs/OTs also use it. Like anything, I think it depends on the quality of your practitioner. Mr. P has been using a Chiropractor for ITB issues and he has helped him a lot.

I had therapy on my right arm with both a PT & Certified Hand Therapist (extensive: 2.5-3 hours a visit, 3x a week, for 9 months). After I was released (not seeing enough improvement to justify insurance payments), I still had issues a thought I'd just have to live with. I started seeing our friend (did you meet him at WSSC? Tom?), and by using ART, he got me back more ROM, help with pain & helped me to regaining some neuro-muscular control. He was the one who told me I needed the 3rd operation last February. Again, if you find the right person, it makes all the difference in the world. I will never be able to thank the people who pulled me back from a mess. But if I've learned anything, I've learned that rehab has to be a partnership. Don't be afraid to be proactive.

Good luck!