Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1471270
L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 53 Cross-fiber friction (deep). Using thumbs, fingertips, knuckles, the heel of the hand, or the ulnar side of the hand, compress superficial tissue and move it back and forth across the fibers of the target tissue. Pace can be slow or brisk. Circular friction (deep). Similar to parallel and cross-fiber friction, use thumbs, fingertips, knuckles, the heel of the hand, or the ulnar side of the hand to compress superficial tissue. However, instead of working parallel or back and forth across the fibers of the target tissue, use circular motions. Pace can be slow or brisk. CAUTIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS The primary caution with friction is to not overdo it. Since it is a heat-producing, chafing type of stroke, one must be careful to use it mindfully. Friction strokes need only be performed for 10–15 seconds on any given target area. Another caution is to be mindful that scar tissue has a purpose in areas of injury. Its purpose is to protect tissue from further injury and fill in gaps where healthy tissue once existed. Our goal, then, is to reduce excess scar tissue that is limiting range of motion or causing pain. The best way to stay within a healthy range is to reassess the tissue after treatment. The client's range of motion should improve, but without causing further pain or instability. Complete contraindications include: • Open skin lesions • Contagious skin diseases • Areas that are numb • Varicose veins • Bruises • Inflamed areas (as a general rule, if it's already hot, it doesn't need more heat!) It is worthwhile to note that creating inf lammation in tissue that has been stagnant for too long can actually be therapeutic. The body's inf lammatory response helps tissues heal, as well as be saturated with nutrients. By stimulating this response, the practitioner sends a signal to the nervous system that an area needs attention. However, if it's already hot, it is on the nervous system's radar. SOMETIMES FRICTION IS GOOD While we don't want to go through life creating a bunch of friction, there are times when it is beneficial. When things (or even people) get stuck or immobilized by an injury or troubling experience, stirring things up can generate momentum toward change. Remaining within healthy boundaries is key. As with people, we must approach the body with respect, reverence, and a genuine desire to be of service. So, go ahead . . . get frictional! Since 2000, Cindy Williams, LMT, has been actively involved in the massage profession as a practitioner, school administrator, instructor, curriculum developer, and mentor. She maintains a private practice as a massage and yoga instructor. Contact her at cynthialynn@massagetherapy.com. VIDEO: "USING POSITIVE FRICTION IN MASSAGE" 1. Open your camera 2. Scan the code 3. Tap on notification 4. Watch!