Massage Therapy Journal Spring 2025

62 • Massage Therapy Journal

Photo by Mark Hansen Photography

Skin rolling

There are two general concepts to fascial techniques—direct and indirect. Direct fascial techniques can be a compressive force, J stroke or skin rolling. This type of massage generally uses much greater force than the indirect approaches. Indirect fascial techniques typically use a lighter pressure and are applied for up to two to five minutes. Direct Fascial Techniques: How-To and Contraindications With direct fascial methods, there is a clearer perception of what the outcome of the technique is. The aim is to increase tissue mobility and blood flow in a focused area by using a force on the tissue generally toward the bind. These techniques typically use more pressure on the tissue than the indirect fascial techniques. It is generally recommended that massage lubricants not be used with these types of techniques because they can inhibit the ability to pick up or hold the tissue. These techniques may be uncomfortable for the client, so staying in contact with them and asking for feedback is important.

Potential Contraindications or Cautions to Using Direct Fascial Techniques • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications • Local bacterial infections • Bruises • Local skin diseases • Areas of decreased sensation • Fragile skin Direct Fascial Techniques include: Pressure/compression: This technique utilizes either a static compressive or gliding force on the skin to mobilize the tissue deeper. Forearms, fingers, fists, palms or elbows can be used for this technique. This can be used on skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia or muscle. Steps for Pressure/Compression 1. Assess tissue for mobility in different directions for bind. 2. Engage the desired tissues. 3. Apply the force in the direction of bind. 4. Either sink in with compression or glide over the skin. 5. Repeat 3 to 5 times.

GET CREDIT Go to amtamassage.org/ learn , where you can purchase the course “Orthopedic Massage Techniques for the Upper Body” and take the final exam to earn CE credits or scan here to get started.

amtamassage.org/mtj