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Active release technique in Woodbridge.

Precise, hands-on work that frees muscle, tendon, and nerve tissue bound down by adhesions or old scar tissue. You get the smooth glide back, and we explain every step before we start.

Manual soft-tissue care Restores smooth movement Talk to a Specialist

What It Is

Precise hands-on work for tissue that won't let go.

You're the type who stretches it out, rolls it, and gets back to it. Which is exactly why it never actually lets go. Some restrictions are too deep for a foam roller to reach.

Active Release Technique is a manual therapy that combines targeted hands-on pressure with active movement to free tissue that's become bound down by adhesions or old scar tissue.

Your physical therapist applies precise tension over the affected muscle, tendon, or nerve while guiding you through a specific movement. That combination breaks up the restriction that's keeping the tissue from gliding the way it should.

We start with a movement-based assessment to find the exact spot that's restricted, so the work is targeted, not a general rubdown. It's often used for overuse injuries, lingering scar tissue, and nerve irritation that's been slow to resolve.

Physical therapist performing Active Release Technique on a patient's forearm Always optional, always explained first

What It Helps

Where Active Release Technique frees what stretching can't.

If tissue feels stuck no matter how much you stretch it, a restriction is often the reason.

The tendinitis that flares with repetitive motion The wrist and forearm pain that won't quit The nerve pain that shoots down your arm The tightness that never quite lets go

What A Session Looks Like

Three steps, one visit.

1

We find the exact restriction through a movement test.

2

We apply tension while you actively move the area.

3

We recheck your range before you leave.

Why It Works

Four reasons it earns a place in your plan.

Finally, relief aimed at the actual restriction.

Restores glide between muscle, tendon, and nerve.

Improves range of motion the same visit.

Fits alongside your ongoing PT plan.

Pairs Well With

Active Release Technique rarely works alone.

Physical Therapy ART frees the tissue. Your PT plan builds the strength that keeps it free. Dry Needling Needling addresses the muscle knot. ART addresses the surrounding tissue restriction.

Questions, Answered

Active Release Technique, no mystery.

You'll likely feel pressure and some tension as we work through the restricted tissue while you move, but it shouldn't be sharp pain. Most patients describe it as intense but tolerable, and it eases as the tissue releases.

Massage generally works to relax tissue broadly. Active Release Technique starts with a movement-based assessment to find the exact spot that's restricted, then combines precise pressure with active motion at that specific spot to restore normal glide.

It depends on how long the restriction has been there and what's causing it. Some people notice a difference after one session, others need a short series alongside their PT plan. We'll check your insurance coverage before you start, so there's no surprise on the bill. Questions before you start? Call us at (703) 763-3922.

Book Your Visit

Ready when you are.

Request a time and a real person calls you back, usually within two business hours. No phone tree. No ‘someone will reach out.’ Just a plan.

  • (703) 763-3922 Prefer to talk now? Call us.
  • Same-week appointments available

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