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 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 S.A.S.T.M., 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. S.A.S.T.M. is also not painful like A.R.T. I am sure you have heard the phrase “no pain, no gain” right? 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 gentle 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 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 or S.A.S.T.M. You will feel great afterward!