Friction Massage

Question 1

Types of Friction Massage

Answer 1

Cross-Fiber Friction

Circular Friction

Linear/Parallel Friction

Cyriax Friction

Question 2

trigger points Purpose of Friction Massage

Answer 2

To mobilize adherent tissue / Reduce scar tissue

Reduce / Mobilize trigger points

Increase local circulation

Decrease pain

Question 3

Cross Fiber

Answer 3

Deep friction applied perpendicular to the direction of the fibers.

Question 4

Parallel

Answer 4

Deep friction applied in the same direction as the fibers,

Question 5

Circular

Answer 5

Repeated circular motion, distal to proximal considered

Question 6

Deep Transverse Friction Massage (DTFM)

Answer 6

also known as Cyriax Friciton - technique popularized by physician James Cyriax.

Used for pain and inflammation relief in musculoskeletal conditions.

Technique attempts to reduce abnormal fibrous adhesions and make scar tissue more mobile in sub-acute and chronic inflammatory stages by realigning normal soft tissue fibers.

Question 7

Effects of DTFM (Cyriax’s)

Answer 7

Mechanical - Mobilization of damaged tissue over a small area. Elongation of tissue fibers.

Physiological - Localized Hyperemia

Histological - Prevents or slows scar formation. Stimulates collagen orientation along lines of stress

Neurological - Pain inhibition via stimulation of mechanoreceptors.

Question 8

Indications of Friction Massage

Answer 8

Promote Healing of connective and contractile tissue

To retain or regain mobility

Pain Modulation

Question 9

Contraindications of Friction Massage

Answer 9

Acute Inflammation

Hematoma

Conditions that increase bleading (Hemophilia, Pts on anti-coagulation, pts on steroids)

Debilitated / Open skin

Question 10

Positioning For DTFM

Answer 10

Muscles - should be supported in a position of relaxation or reduced muscle tone.

Tendons - Position of tension

Ligaments - Taunt, as far as the ROM allows.

Question 11

Treatment Protocol

Answer 11

Initial treatment - 5 - 6 min

first 1-2 min patient will feel mild to moderate tenderness, within 2 mins the pain should subside,

Once pain subsides, gradually increase the pressure, checking in every 2 min. Increased by 3 inutes each session reaching a maximum session length of 12-15min

Wait at least 48 hours betweeen treatment sessions.