Active Release Therapy is primarily used for which of the following purposes?

Active Release Therapy (ART) is primarily utilized to address soft tissue problems, particularly those caused by adhesions. This technique involves a hands-on approach where a trained practitioner applies specific pressure to shorten and lengthen the tissue while the patient actively moves a specific muscle or joint. This combination helps to release tight muscles, alleviate tension in soft tissues, and enhance mobility.

The focus on correcting soft tissue issues makes ART highly effective for conditions stemming from repetitive strain injuries, muscle overuse, or trauma, where adhesions can restrict movement and cause pain. Therefore, the primary aim of ART is to restore proper function to the affected tissues and improve overall movement patterns.

In contrast, enhancing cardiovascular endurance pertains to different training methods, joint manipulations are suited for specific chiropractic techniques, and promoting passive range of motion typically involves techniques such as stretching or joint mobilization that do not engage the patient's active participation in the movement.