Wisconsin Esthetics State Board Practice Test

What are the effects of the massage movement 'Friction'?

1. Stimulates blood flow

2. Increases nerve activity

3. Moves skin across the underlying bone

4. Warms the muscles

The correct answer is: Moves skin across the underlying bone

Friction is a specific massage technique that involves applying pressure and moving the skin against the underlying tissues. This movement is essential for creating heat and stimulating the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. By moving the skin across the underlying bone, friction helps release tension, break down adhesions, and improve circulation in the area, which can generally promote better flexibility and mobility. While other movements, such as effleurage or petrissage, may indeed stimulate blood flow, increase nerve activity, or warm the muscles, these are not the primary effects associated with friction. The unique aspect of friction lies in its ability to manipulate the skin directly over the underlying structures, which can have therapeutic benefits in terms of improving overall muscle health and function.