Transverse Frictions

Transverse Frictions are one of the two types of frictions used in massage.
(The other type of frictions are circular frictions.) Frictions generally are a small variety of techniques by which specific anatomical structures are manipulated using the fingers or thumbs only. Frictions are precise movements focussed on a very small area of the body.

Transverse Frictions are manipulations precise actions that are performed by the tips of only one or two digits, such as the tip of a thumb, the finger tip of the index finger (possibly reinforced by the tip of the middle finger on the nail bed of the index finger), the finger tip of the middle finger (possibly reinforced by the tip of the middle finger on the nail bed of the index finger), or two finger tips together.
The tips of the fingers used are moved backwards and forwards across the structure being worked such that there is no movement between the therapist's fingers and the client's skin - but rather movement between the structures being worked and the overlying tissues/skin

Frictions should not be continued for an excessive amount of time. They should never be performed over recently strained muscles or scar tissue, over any form of inflammation (of the skin or underlying structures and organs), in cases of inflammatory conditions, skin infections, varicose veins, or when the client is pregnant.
If in doubt about the safety of a movement, even qualified therapists shouldn't perform it - but should seek further expert/medical advice.

This Section consists of short summaries about the classical massage movements. This list is not exhaustive and visitors are encouraged to supplement their study by reading many different sources.
For more general information about Massage see the sections about:
Massage, Indian Head Massage, Aromatherapy, Carrier Oils, Business Development ideas for New Therapists.