Which massage technique focuses on applying pressure directly to specific points of the body?

The massage technique that focuses on applying pressure directly to specific points of the body is friction. This method involves moving the fingers or hands in a circular or back-and-forth motion over the skin, targeting specific areas where tension or pain exists. The purpose of friction is to increase circulation in those areas, break down scar tissue, and release muscle knots. This technique is particularly effective for localized issues and is often used to alleviate discomfort in muscles and joints, making it a valuable tool in physical therapy.

While other techniques like petrissage involve kneading and squeezing, effleurage is a gliding stroke meant for relaxation and warming up the tissue, and compression adds a pressurized technique used more for relaxation and overall muscle tension reduction, none of these specifically isolate pressure onto particular points as friction does. Thus, understanding the nuances of friction helps recognize its role in targeted therapeutic approaches within physical therapy.