Active Release Technique (A.R.T.) is becoming very popular in body work.  Chiropractors and massage therapists are increasing its use for their clients.  It gets good results but I prefer to use Graston/Sound Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (S.A.S.T.M.) in my practice.  

I know, it is a mouthful, but it gets great results and it's easy on the practitioner.   Both methods focus on releasing adhesions accumulated in the body and allow for proper healing and movement. 

One big difference I like about Graston Technique is that the patient does not have to move the effected body part while instruments are supplied.  Sometimes a patient can barely move because of tightness or pain so why traumatize the area more when you don't have to.  This method allows the patient to lay on the table and relax while the treatment is applied.   

Graston Technique is also not painful and pressure is applied to specific areas that have been under large amounts of stress.  Ever hear "No pain, no gain", well in this case that phrase doesn't apply.  There is no pain, but lots of gain!  I personally think that is a good thing. 

Here is what happens during a session of S.A.S.T.M.  Carefully crafted instruments are applied to the area of scar tissue and with pressure strokes over the area, they release scar tissue and knots that are stored in the body and cause dysfunction and/or pain.  After the application, patients feel less stress on the area, increased blood flow and better movement.

Another great feature with using Graston/S.A.S.T.M., is that the practitioner does not injure or strain their thumbs.  I have several chiropractic friends that tell me their thumbs are killing them after a busy day of A.R.T.  This does not happen with these special instruments. If you have gotten A.R.T. in the past, try Graston/S.A.S.T.M.  You will feel great afterward!

Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF has been using Graston Technique in her practice since 2009.  Chiropractic treatments along with soft tissue work really help patients get better quickly and stay healthy.  Contact our San Francisco, CA or San Carlos, CA today!