Deep Friction

Deep friction, also known as lateral friction, is a specific manual treatment technique that was developed in the 1950s by Dr. James Cyriax and is used primarily for chronic tendon problems.

It is characterized by deep, localized frictional movements that are carried out precisely across the fiber course of the affected tissue. During use, the therapist applies targeted pressure to the precisely localized painful structure with fingertips or thumb and performs small, oscillating transverse movements. The treatment is carried out in a pain-free or slightly painful position and takes between 3 and 15 minutes, depending on the symptoms.

The physiological effects of this technique are manifold: It intensively promotes local blood flow, removes adhesions between tissue layers, breaks the vicious circle of chronic inflammation and supports the functional orientation of newly formed collagen fibers in the healing process. In addition, mechanical stimulation overstimulates pain receptors, which can lead to temporary pain reduction (gate control theory).

Areas of application:

• Chronic tendonitis (tendinopathies)
• tennis elbow/golfer's elbow
• muscle fiber tears
• scar treatment