Blogs

What Can ART Do For Athletic Back Issues?

Joey Lee Chiropractor Consult Sarah

February 17, 2026

profile photo of Jason Lee Chiropractor

Westside Sports Chiro

Weekend athletes often find themselves trapped in a frustrating cycle of back pain that traditional treatments fail to resolve. Active Release Technique presents a fundamentally different approach, targeting the root causes that conventional methods frequently miss. Unlike standard therapies that focus on symptoms, ART addresses the specific adhesions and scar tissue that develop from repetitive athletic movements. The technique's unique combination of manual pressure and active motion creates results that many athletes never thought possible for their persistent back issues.

Understanding How Back Pain Affects Weekend Athletes

<div class="embed-youtube" style="position: relative; width: 100%; height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe style="position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%;" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YUWaUgQQ0GU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Although weekend athletes dedicate only a few days per week to physical activity, they face a disproportionately high risk of developing back pain compared to their consistently active counterparts. This vulnerability stems from sudden activity increases without proper conditioning, leading to muscle strains and soft tissue dysfunction.

Weekend athletes often skip adequate warm-ups, creating biomechanical imbalances that compromise mobility and athletic performance.

Back pain creates a destructive cycle where reduced activity levels further weaken supporting muscles, increasing susceptibility to future injuries. The healing process becomes prolonged when athletes continue sporadic high-intensity activities without addressing underlying soft tissue restrictions.

Active Release Technique addresses these dysfunctions by targeting specific adhesions and scar tissue, helping weekend athletes maintain mobility and prevent injuries through improved tissue quality and enhanced recovery protocols.

What Makes ART Different From Traditional Back Pain Treatments

While traditional back pain treatments often focus on symptom management through passive modalities like heat therapy, electrical stimulation, or pain medication, Active Release Technique fundamentally differs by directly addressing the root cause of dysfunction within soft tissues.

ART specifically targets scar tissue and adhesions in muscles, tendons, and ligaments that contribute to back pain, rather than merely masking symptoms like traditional treatments.

This movement-based approach combines manual pressure with active motion to restore normal tissue function during treatment sessions.

With over 500 specific protocols, ART provides personalized treatment tailored to individual biomechanics and dysfunction patterns.

Unlike static therapies, ART simultaneously improves flexibility and strength while alleviating pain, resulting in faster recovery times and enhanced injury prevention for athletes.

Breaking Down Adhesions and Scar Tissue in Athletic Backs

Athletic backs accumulate adhesions and scar tissue through repetitive stress, acute injuries, and muscle imbalances that create dense, fibrous bands within the soft tissues.

Active Release Technique specifically targets these problematic formations that restrict normal muscle function and contribute to chronic pain patterns in athletes.

The treatment process involves applying directed tension while guiding muscles through specific movements, effectively breaking down adhesions and scar tissue.

This targeted approach addresses muscle imbalances and nerve entrapment that traditional treatments often miss.

Athletes experience significant pain relief as ART restores normal tissue function and circulation.

Common Back Conditions ART Treats in Weekend Athletes

Since weekend athletes often push their bodies beyond normal limits during sporadic training sessions, they frequently develop specific back conditions that respond exceptionally well to Active Release Technique.

Lower back pain represents the most common complaint, typically resulting from overuse or improper mechanics during intense weekend activities. Muscle strains occur when weekend athletes exceed their regular activity levels without adequate preparation. Sciatica, characterized by radiating pain down the leg, develops when compressed soft tissues affect nerve pathways.

ART effectively addresses these conditions by targeting adhesions that restrict normal movement patterns. The technique breaks down scar tissue formation while improving mobility and flexibility in affected areas.

Weekend athletes benefit from ART's ability to accelerate recovery while maintaining performance levels, making it an ideal treatment for those with inconsistent training schedules.

The ART Treatment Process for Athletic Back Issues

Most practitioners begin the ART treatment process with a thorough evaluation that examines the athlete's injury history, movement patterns, and specific areas of muscular tension throughout the back region.

This extensive assessment identifies specific soft tissue adhesions affecting athletic back issues and establishes a baseline for muscle function evaluation.

During treatment sessions, the practitioner applies targeted pressure while guiding patients through precise movements designed to break down scar tissue formations.

ART utilizes over 500 specialized protocols, enabling customized approaches for individual athletic conditions. The hands-on technique addresses not only primary pain sources but also surrounding muscle groups that contribute to spinal dysfunction.

Athletes typically experience decreased pain and improved range of motion within several sessions, as ART effectively targets underlying causes rather than merely addressing symptoms.

Performance Benefits Athletes Experience After ART

Beyond the immediate pain relief and improved mobility that ART provides, athletes consistently report measurable performance enhancements that extend far beyond basic symptom management.

Active Release Technique (ART) notably improves range of motion in the back, creating more efficient movement patterns during athletic activities. By addressing muscle imbalances and adhesions, ART facilitates better alignment and posture, which are fundamental for ideal athletic performance.

Athletes experience reduced pain and stiffness, enabling them to train at higher intensities while maintaining superior soft tissue health.

Recovery times from back injuries decrease considerably, allowing faster return to competition. Regular ART sessions prevent future injuries by maintaining ideal tissue function and addressing underlying biomechanical issues before they become problematic, ensuring sustained peak physical condition.

Preventing Future Back Injuries With Regular ART Sessions

While reactive treatment addresses existing injuries, proactive ART sessions serve as a powerful preventive strategy that identifies and corrects underlying biomechanical issues before they manifest as debilitating back problems.

Regular ART sessions function as a thorough soft tissue management system that actively works to break down adhesions in spinal muscles and surrounding tissues. This proactive approach targets muscle imbalances and tension patterns that contribute to future injuries, ensuring ideal biomechanics during athletic performance.

The therapy enhances soft tissue mobility while delivering improved range of motion in back muscles, effectively helping athletes reduce the risk of strains and sprains.

Studies demonstrate that consistent ART treatment greatly decreases recurrent back injuries compared to athletes without this intervention. By facilitating better blood flow and nutrient delivery, preventing future back injuries becomes achievable while maintaining overall spinal health and peak athletic performance.

Finding the Right ART Provider for Your Athletic Needs

How does an athlete identify the ideal ART provider to address their specific back issues and performance goals?

Athletes should prioritize finding a certified ART practitioner with specialized credentials and proven experience treating athletic back issues. A qualified ART practitioner demonstrates expertise through hands-on soft tissue treatment techniques, conducting thorough assessment of tissue texture and movement patterns.

The provider should understand sport-specific biomechanics and encourage active participation throughout the treatment process. When evaluating potential practitioners, athletes benefit from reviewing patient testimonials to gauge effectiveness with similar conditions.

Manual therapy specialists experienced in chronic conditions often provide superior outcomes. Establishing regular ART sessions with the right provider guarantees excellent recovery while preventing future injuries through maintained flexibility and proper biomechanical function.

Conclusion

Active Release Technique represents an extensive solution for weekend athletes struggling with back issues. By systematically addressing adhesions, scar tissue, and biomechanical imbalances, ART delivers both immediate pain relief and long-term performance enhancement. Athletes who incorporate regular ART sessions into their training regimen experience improved flexibility, reduced injury risk, and sustained athletic performance. For those seeking an effective, targeted approach to athletic back care, ART offers proven results that support continued sports participation.

Testimonials

Real Stories, Real
Results

Sarah T.
"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalised approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
mike li
Great knowledge and experience , Great job Jason!!Definitely will recommend
N “Neens” A
Wow! What an amazing experience! Dr Joey is absolutely brilliant! He was able to diagnose & treat a multitude of issues I have with my neck, back, shoulders & ankle. He was compassionate and understanding with all my concerns and I am forever grateful! There aren’t enough gold stars to show how amazing he is!
DJ NIKCO
I travel 2 hours each way every 2 weeks to see Jason and its worth it! He works with the whole body and is able to give detailed answers to all my questions. My injury was super complex as I have seen many specialists but no one has made any progress but now with jason I continue to see improvement each session! High Recommend.
Ralph
Good vibes as soon as you walk in,professional service,attention to details in adressing issues and providing plenty of explanation and a professional approach to move forward.muchly recommended 👍
Lyle Tacadena
Jason! He knows his stuff! I've had knee pain for months and with one treatment, the pain went from 90% to 10%. Hoping he can work his magic on the rest of the body. Amazing work and THANK YOU!
Shanny Ho
Thankyou Jason for your wealth of knowledge. I saw Jason as a new patient for a chronic issue I have had for quite a few years! It has stopped me from moving as much as I have in the past as the pain associated afterwards was always debilitating: tightness in the hips, pain on pressure on the heel of the foot. Just with the treatment provided in one session it feels better the day after with weight on the heel and my hip feels much more agile. Hopefully with the next couple of appointments I’ll be back to cycling and lifting !
Gordon Holloway
With my experience with Jason great personality very reliable and trustworthy he listens to your problems and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you.
Ramzy Shublaq
Easily the best of the best in the business. I have been seeing Jason for over a year and he has helped me more than any other health practitioner. I am also a PT and currently refer a lot of my clients in to him, and they have all had glowing reviews and feedback. Thanks Jason ✌🏼
CHUNG-WEI TSAO
Thanks to Jason's treatment, I feel liberated after each session, and he also tells me how I can take care of myself, which is very useful , I wish I could meet him earlier.
Country life “Dragon” In Sydney
Jason is amazing i felt releif from a long time neck shoulder and foot pain from first session , he take his time treating his patients , very professional. i have been with my previous chiropractor for years spend too much money and i didn’t benefit , thank westside clinic for best service and treatment
Steve L
I had the pleasure of visiting Jason this past Saturday, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. Jason is not only incredibly skilled but also honest and informative. I appreciated how he took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood the treatment plan. What impressed me most was Jason's dedication to his craft and his genuine concern for his patients' well-being. He didn't rush through the session; instead, he took the time to address my concerns and tailor the treatment to my specific needs. I purposely waited more than 24 hours before writing this review to let the effects of the session settle and to give an honest opinion after a workout. I can confidently say that I feel a significant improvement, and I am grateful for Jason's expertise. If you're looking for a chiropractor who combines skill with a caring attitude, I highly recommend Jason. Thank you, Jason, for a truly exceptional experience!
Raffi Omer
Dr Jason Lee the man with full knowledge and experience. Highly recommend this place. If don't want to drag your pain with continuous appointments please come and visit place your well see the difference in 2 sessions..
John
Jason addressed my neck and shoulder issue in just one session and is now making significant improvements to my lower back. His expertise is evident, and I highly recommend him.
Jason Fong

Have been visiting Jason at Westside Sports Chiropractic for several months now and am really impressed with his thorough assessment and treatment. He takes the time to understand the root cause and focuses on correcting that, not just a short term fix. I've seen a lot of improvement in my condition so far. Would highly recommend.

Tim Booth

Jason is fantastic. He knows his stuff and every issue I have brought to him has been solved with a logical approach and with confidence.I wish I had found him much sooner then I did.Highly recommended.

Travelling Soldier

Jason is a wholistic health professional. Saw him for a long standing shoulder pain. Clear ultrasounds and x-rays. He accurately diagnosed the underlying cause and offered rapid yet sustainable relief in just one session. Now looking at rehab with him in the on-site gym and continue to strength and conditioning long term. Glad I called in !

Oscar Marulanda

I’ve been in treatment with Jason for over a year. I went with a back injury and Jason basically “fixed” me. Along the way, he has provided guidance and advice about how to improve my back.Recently, I have sessions with Joey. His skills and experience are aligned with Jason’s which made you feel comfortable that either one of them is equally doing the best for you.I’ve recommended Jason to my mum, brother and brother-in-law. They all agree that Jason has miracle hands.

Daniel Eishou

Iv had 2 sessions with Jason, iv had neck/shoulder a shoulder issue for years now. He has no joke found the issue given me things to work on and only after 2 sessions it actually feels it's getting better. Very knowledgeable and the session is worth it.

Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

John Lee

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

get started

Need Chiropractic Services? Book Now!

Ready to experience the benefits of expert chiropractic care at Westside Sports Chiro? Don't wait any longer – schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.

Contact Us

Let’s Get in Touch

Have a question or need assistance? Fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Fill out the form

We will contact you as soon as possible

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.