Active Release Technique (ART)

Active release technique (ART) is a non-invasive manual therapy which treats your body’s muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves by combining manipulation (by the Practitioner) and movement (involving the patient). This technique helps by breaking down adhesions, scar tissues and tightness, which limit the flexibility of muscles and joints. The treatments increase movement and range of motion, resulting in a decrease in pain and restrictions. ART can be performed by Physiotherapists, Chiropractors and Registered Massage Therapists. It can be effective in as little as one treatment, however, it is common to treat over more than one session.

Conditions which can be treated by ART include:

  • Tension headaches
  • Neck pain
  • Low back pain
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Shin splints
  • Tennis/Golfer’s elbow
  • Bursitis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Sciatic nerve pain
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Sprain/strains
  • Restricted ranges of motion

Active Release Technique is a highly effective tool in the treatment of a wide range of soft tissue (muscle, tendon, ligament) and joint issues. It can significantly reduce stiffness and pain, and help to get patients back to their favourite sports and activities.

Our Active Release Therapy Team

Dr. Rachel Rottger, DC, B.PE Book Now
Chiropractor | Movement & Rehabilitation Specialist
Chiropractic, Active Release Therapy, Shockwave Therapy, Cold Laser Therapy

Dr. Rachel Rottger, DC, B.PE

Book Now

Dr. Rachel Rottger is a chiropractor and movement specialist from Alberta, Canada, with a diverse background in sports performance, rehabilitation, and biomechanics. She earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer West Chiropractic College in San Jose, California, and holds a Bachelor of Physical Education with a concentration in sport performance from the University of Alberta. With over a decade of experience as a personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, registered kinesiologist, and rehabilitation specialist, Dr. Rottger has developed a unique understanding of human movement that she applies to help people of all activity levels.

As a chiropractor, Dr. Rottger takes a holistic approach to musculoskeletal health, addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction. This comprehensive approach includes the correction of joint dysfunction, optimizing biomechanics, and restoring proper movement patterns throughout the body. It is particularly valuable for individuals dealing with chronic pain, injury recovery, or those looking to enhance overall physical performance and well-being.

Dr. Rottger combines her in-depth knowledge of biomechanics and movement analysis with a variety of advanced therapeutic techniques—such as Graston Technique, Active Release Technique (ART), chiropractic manipulative therapy of the spine and extremities, and rehabilitation exercises. Additionally, she utilizes Shockwave therapy and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and treat stubborn injuries. Her ability to assess, correct, and optimize movement patterns across the entire musculoskeletal system—including the spine, extremities, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ)—sets her apart in providing a comprehensive treatment plan for her patients.

Her background in competitive sports and coaching provides Dr. Rottger with a unique perspective on body mechanics, enabling her to guide patients through movements like squatting, bending, lifting, and core stability—addressing both injury prevention and performance enhancement. Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or simply looking to improve your mobility and strength, Dr. Rottger's comprehensive, personalized approach helps you achieve long-term results.

Committed to lifelong learning, Dr. Rottger continually pursues advanced certifications and specialized training to stay at the forefront of chiropractic care and rehabilitation. She is dedicated to offering the most effective, up-to-date treatments to help her patients achieve better function, pain relief, and overall quality of life.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Rottger enjoys weightlifting, and exploring the outdoors with her family in the beautiful North Vancouver area.