Dr. Douglas Krefman: Certified Full Body Active Release Techniques (ART®) Provider
Understanding Active Release Techniques (ART®)
Dr. Douglas Krefman has proudly achieved full body Active Release Techniques (ART®) certification, having completed rigorous courses in spine, upper extremity, and lower extremity treatments. This certification positions Dr. Krefman as a leading provider of ART®, a highly effective method for treating various soft tissue injuries and conditions.
Active Release Techniques (ART®) is recognized as the gold standard for soft tissue treatment, particularly in addressing sports injuries. This innovative management system targets muscles, nerves, fascia, and tendons, which often develop restrictions due to cumulative injuries. Such restrictions can disrupt the natural movement of muscles and joints, leading to symptoms like pain, weakness, reduced range of motion, numbness, and tingling.
How ART® Works
ART® operates on the principle that soft tissues can develop restrictions over time due to repetitive strain or acute injuries. These restrict the movement of the affected tissues, causing pain and functional impairment. ART® providers, like Dr. Krefman, use their hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. By applying precisely directed tension combined with specific patient movements, they can release the restrictions and restore normal function to the tissues.
The Benefits of ART®
The benefits of ART® are numerous, making it a preferred treatment method for many patients and healthcare providers. Here are some of the key advantages:
Pain Relief: ART® is highly effective in reducing or eliminating pain associated with soft tissue injuries. This includes chronic pain conditions that have not responded well to other treatments.
Improved Range of Motion: By releasing restrictions, ART® helps restore the full range of motion to affected joints and muscles, allowing for greater flexibility and mobility.
Enhanced Athletic Performance: Many athletes use ART® to address injuries and improve performance. By maintaining healthy soft tissues, athletes can reduce their risk of injury and optimize their physical capabilities.
Non-Surgical Treatment: ART® offers a non-invasive alternative to surgery for many conditions. Patients often experience significant improvement without the need for surgical intervention.
Personalized Treatment: ART® is tailored to each individual's specific needs. Providers assess the unique condition of each patient and develop a customized treatment plan to address their specific issues.
Conditions Treated with ART®
ART® is effective in treating a wide array of conditions, including but not limited to:
Plantar Fasciitis: This condition, characterized by pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, is often caused by repetitive strain. ART® can help release the tight fascia and alleviate pain.
Tennis Elbow: This condition involves pain and inflammation in the elbow due to overuse. ART® can reduce the restrictions in the muscles and tendons of the elbow, providing relief.
Headaches: Many headaches are caused by muscle tension and restrictions in the neck and upper back. ART® can address these issues and reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
Muscle Strains: ART® can help heal muscle strains by improving blood flow and reducing scar tissue formation.
Rotator Cuff Syndrome: This condition involves pain and limited range of motion in the shoulder. ART® can release restrictions in the rotator cuff muscles, improving function and reducing pain.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: ART® can alleviate pain and dysfunction in the jaw by addressing muscle and soft tissue adhesions.
Post-Surgical Scar Tissue: ART® is effective in managing scar tissue that forms after surgery, helping to restore normal tissue function and reduce pain.
Peripheral Nerve Entrapments: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, which involve compression of peripheral nerves, can be effectively treated with ART® by releasing the soft tissue adhesions that are causing the entrapment.
The ART® Treatment Process
The ART® treatment process is thorough and involves several key steps:
Assessment: The provider begins by assessing the patient's condition. This includes taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination to identify the areas of soft tissue dysfunction.
Diagnosis: Based on the assessment, the provider diagnoses the specific issues affecting the patient's soft tissues. This includes identifying the presence of adhesions and determining their impact on movement and function.
Treatment Plan: The provider develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs. This plan includes specific ART® techniques to address the identified issues.
Treatment Sessions: During treatment sessions, the provider uses their hands to apply specific pressure to the affected areas while guiding the patient through specific movements. This combination of pressure and movement helps release the adhesions and restore normal tissue function.
Monitoring and Adjustment: The provider monitors the patient's progress throughout the treatment process and adjusts the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal results.
Why Choose Dr. Douglas Krefman for ART®?
Dr. Douglas Krefman is a highly skilled and experienced provider of ART®. His comprehensive training and certification in full body ART® make him uniquely qualified to address a wide range of soft tissue conditions. Here are some reasons to choose Dr. Krefman for ART® treatment:
Extensive Training: Dr. Krefman has completed rigorous training in spine, upper extremity, and lower extremity ART® courses, ensuring he has the knowledge and skills to effectively treat a variety of conditions.
Personalized Care: Dr. Krefman is committed to providing personalized care to each of his patients. He takes the time to understand their specific needs and develop a customized treatment plan.
Holistic Approach: Dr. Krefman takes a holistic approach to treatment, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of soft tissue dysfunction.
Patient-Centered: Dr. Krefman prioritizes patient comfort and satisfaction. He works closely with his patients to ensure they are fully informed and comfortable with the treatment process.
Success Stories and Patient Testimonials
Many patients have experienced significant improvements in their condition after undergoing ART® treatment with Dr. Krefman. Here are some success stories and testimonials from satisfied patients:
Jane S. – Relief from Chronic Headaches: "I had been suffering from chronic headaches for years, and nothing seemed to help. After just a few ART® sessions with Dr. Krefman, my headaches have significantly reduced in frequency and intensity. I feel like a new person!"
Tom D. – Improved Athletic Performance: "As a professional athlete, I am always looking for ways to improve my performance and prevent injuries. ART® with Dr. Krefman has been a game-changer for me. My muscles feel looser, and I have noticed a significant improvement in my flexibility and strength."
Sarah M. – Recovery from Tennis Elbow: "I had been struggling with tennis elbow for months, and it was affecting my ability to play the sport I love. Dr. Krefman's ART® treatment has made a huge difference. The pain is gone, and I am back on the court!"
John P. – Relief from Plantar Fasciitis: "Plantar fasciitis was making it difficult for me to walk and enjoy my daily activities. After a few ART® sessions with Dr. Krefman, the pain has subsided, and I can walk comfortably again."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Active Release Techniques (ART®)? Active Release Techniques (ART®) is a patented, state-of-the-art soft tissue management system that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for soft tissue treatment, particularly in addressing sports injuries.
2. How does ART® work? ART® works by breaking down adhesions or scar tissue that form within and between soft tissues due to repetitive strain or acute injuries. Providers use their hands to apply specific pressure and guide patients through precise movements, releasing the adhesions and restoring normal tissue function.
3. What conditions can ART® treat? ART® is effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, headaches, muscle strains, rotator cuff syndrome, TMJ disorders, post-surgical scar tissue, and peripheral nerve entrapments like carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. Is ART® painful? ART® treatment may involve some discomfort, especially when addressing areas with significant adhesions. However, patients often describe the sensation as a "good pain" that leads to relief. Providers work to ensure patient comfort throughout the treatment process.
5. How many ART® sessions will I need? The number of ART® sessions needed varies depending on the individual's condition and response to treatment. Some patients experience significant improvement after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment to achieve optimal results.
6. Is ART® covered by insurance? Coverage for ART® varies by insurance provider and plan. It is recommended to check with your insurance company to determine if ART is covered by your plan.
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