Dustin Finucan L.M.T.

A.R.T. Full Body Certified

Massage for 25 years Full Body Active Release Technique. Myofascial release expert. Neuromuscular proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF). Muscle Energy; Post isometric stretching; Myoskeletal alignment Technique; Cranial sacral; Thai massage; Thomas Myers anatomy trains myofascial release; Medical massage; Whole body view; Ace personal training for 15 years; Sports injury management; Instructor at Florida College of natural health for three years; Reflexology; Cupping; Rock tape; basic and advanced blades course. IASTM active release techniques; lower body and spine; 2400 hours of base massage therapy train Cdn. Joint mobilization Orthropedic Assessment and structural evaluation; Core stabilization Remedial exercise; Sports nutrition. TRX suspension training; Facilitated stretching and Stretching anatomy. MADD Dog Athletic Spinning instructor. Kinetic taping.

Active Release Technique (ART)

is a patented, hands-on soft-tissue therapy that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. It is a movement-based massage technique that aims to relieve pain and restore function by breaking down scar tissue and adhesions caused by overuse or injury.

How does ART work?

When soft tissues like muscles and ligaments are overused, injured, or put under repetitive strain, they can develop dense, fibrous scar tissue called adhesions. These adhesions can cause: 

  • Muscle and connective tissue to shorten and become weaker.

  • Nerves to become entrapped, leading to tingling, numbness, or weakness.

  • A reduced range of motion, pain, and loss of strength. 

ART practitioners use their hands to feel for these adhesions in the soft tissues. The treatment combines precise, deep pressure on the affected tissue while the patient actively moves the area through a specific range of motion. This process stretches and separates the restricted tissues, helping to restore normal movement. 

Conditions treated with ART

ART is used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, many of which stem from overuse. Common conditions include: 

  • Back pain

  • Neck pain and headaches

  • Sciatica

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve entrapment issues

  • Shoulder pain, including rotator cuff injuries and impingement

  • Plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis

  • Shin splints

  • Knee problems, including patellar tendonitis (runner's knee) and IT band syndrome

  • Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow

  • Post-operative scarring and adhesions 

Benefits of Active Release Technique

  • Relieves muscle and joint pain: By breaking up adhesions and scar tissue, ART addresses the underlying cause of pain.

  • Improves flexibility and range of motion: The treatment restores normal tissue function, which can increase movement and flexibility.

  • Enhances athletic performance: Athletes often use ART to optimize performance, accelerate recovery, and prevent injuries caused by repetitive motions.

  • Reduces inflammation: ART can activate the lymphatic system to help reduce inflammation in the body.

  • Provides a non-invasive treatment: It is a drug-free, hands-on therapy that is a conservative alternative for treating many soft-tissue issues.

  • Speeds recovery: Patients often see results within a few sessions, with many experiencing significant relief in a short period. 

Finding a certified ART practitioner

ART should only be performed by a healthcare professional who has been certified in the technique. These certified providers can include: 

  • Chiropractors

  • Physical therapists

  • Massage therapists

  • Certified athletic trainers

  • Medical doctors 

You can find a certified ART provider by searching on the official Active Release Technique website or using professional directories like Yelp to find local certified specialists