Friction is the deepest form of massage and consists of deep, circular motions performed by the thumb, knuckles, or ends of the fingers at right angles to the involved tissue. These deep circular movements can loosen adherent fibrous tissue scars, aid in the absorption of an edema, and reduce localized muscular spasm. Which describes Friction?

• A. Light superficial stroking
• B. Deep circular motions at right angles to the tissue to loosen scar tissue, aid edema absorption, and reduce spasm
• C. Tapotement with cupping
• D. Gentle vibration

Answer: (B)

Friction is a deep-tissue technique that uses firm pressure with small, circular motions performed perpendicular to the tissue. This perpendicular, deep work helps to break up adherent scar tissue and adhesions, promotes movement of fluids to aid edema absorption, and reduces localized muscle spasm by releasing tight, hypertonic fibers. The description that aligns with this is deep circular motions at right angles to the tissue to loosen scar tissue, aid edema absorption, and reduce spasm. The other options describe lighter or different modalities—light superficial stroking is effleurage, tapotement with cupping is a percussion technique, and gentle vibration is a different vibration method—so they don’t match friction’s defining approach and goals.