Deep transverse friction massage, or friction therapy, is one of a variety of techniques that can be
included under the term Orthopedic massage.
This type of therapy uses a 'back and forth' motion directly on the involved
area of the body to break down adhesive scar tissue.
General massage to the area is also performed in order to increase blood flow and speed healing.
It is performed in a precise manner on only the area of the body which is injured.
Elimination of that excess scar tissue, along with exercise and proper stretching,
will allow the injured area to finally regain strength and normal use.
Damage to a structure (tendon, ligament, muscle) can occur because of injury or
overuse. When that happens, the body will respond by attempting to heal that injury.
It does so by, among other things, creating scar tissue to heal the damaged area.
Tendon damaged by a "tennis elbow" type of injury
The scar tissue itself is not actually the problem. The pain and restriction occurs
when scar tissue forms in an unorganized, poorly aligned manor.
This poorly organized scar tissue can, and often does, re-tear whenever that area of the body
is called upon to do work. The body then attempts to heal that new injury and the process starts again.
Chronic pain from this sort of situation can be present for months and even years.
Poorly organized scar tissue causes pain and restriction
Friction therapy helps to break up the excess scar tissue (the tissue that most often causes
pain and restriction).
The injury can then fully heal and the affected area of the body can regain strength and function.
Scar tissue repaired and properly aligned after friction therapy