The process 

After a thorough examination to determine the cause of the problem a variety of therapeutic techniques will be used, depending on the individual requirements of the patient. In addition to ART, Dr. Britton uses a variety of gentle and precise spinal and extremity adjustment techniques - so that you can feel better and move more freely again.

Techniques

Active Release Techniques®: (ART) is an advanced form of soft tissue therapy that specifically targets the sites of injury. Unlike other forms of therapies which simply aim to relax a tight muscle, ART works to release tissues that are bound together (adhesions), which may cause limitations of movement or even entrap nerves. ART is not massage therapy. It is a technique that requires a thorough understanding of anatomy and movement by the practitioner, as well as a sensitivity of touch that is only gained through experience. Active Release Technique can restore optimal mobility and improve performance in the athlete and non-athlete alike. 

ART is a highly specific, safe, and non-invasive form of treatment. It has a very high success rate, even with chronic problems. It has proven to be so effective for such a wide range of injuries that it is now considered the leading soft tissue therapy in the world, Last year almost every pro sports team in North America used ART before and after competitions. If it can work for them, it can work for you!

Chiropractic: Sometimes patients ask if its the joint or the muscle that is injured. The reality is that most injuries involve a joint and the surrounding soft tissue. Dysfunctions of the two are so closely related that they could be considered a single, inseparable unit. In depth knowledge of these structures, both anatomically and functionally, is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Rehab Exercises: This is the third part of the treatment triad. You may be given recommended exercises or lifestyle changes designed to help reinforce the gains you made during the course of treatment.

What Happens During Active Release Techniques Treatment?

Every ART session is actually a combination of exam and treatment; motion itself is used to find and fix the problem. After thoroughly assessing your situation Dr. Britton will use her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness and movement of your muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments and nerves. She will free up scar tissue and adhesions by applying directed pressure, while asking you to do specific movements. After several treatments, most patients feel a substantial improvement in both in pain level and range of motion.

Based in Marin County since 2003, Dr. Britton has helped countless local residents increase their ability to move easily and become free of pain using ART and other modalities.  A Certified ART Practitioner since 2000, she also assists in teaching Active Release Techniques to chiropractors, physical therapists and athletic trainers.

Marilyn Britton, D.C.
Phone: 415-924-1327