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Shoulder: Supraspinatus Transverse Friction Massage | Physical Therapy IAOM-US

An orthopaedic manual therapy instructor shows how to find the supraspinatus tendon where it attaches to the top of the arm bone and apply transverse friction to it. Placing the arm behind the back brings the tendon forward from under the deltoid so it can be felt.

Shoulder: Supraspinatus Transverse Friction Massage | Physical Therapy IAOM-US · IAOMUSVIDEO · YouTube

Video: Shoulder: Supraspinatus Transverse Friction Massage | Physical Therapy IAOM-US, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lBVeZBjbdw

Length2:36
RatingClarity 4/5 · Credibility 5/5 · Relevance 3/5
Orthopaedic manual therapy institute for physiotherapists. Useful for locating the supraspinatus tendon; clinical rather than Cert IV level.
Coverstechniques/transverse-friction · techniques/cross-fibre-friction · muscles/supraspinatus
Watchhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lBVeZBjbdw

Key points

  • The supraspinatus tendon sits under the deltoid; placing the arm in extension and internal rotation (hand behind the back) brings it forward.
  • Find the coracoid process, then feel just lateral for a small flat area where the tendon attaches.
  • In this position the fibres run front to back, so the friction goes across that line.
  • Use the index finger reinforced by the middle finger.

Cautions

  • Treating tendon injuries or tears is outside massage scope; refer on.
  • Makes pain-relief claims that are the presenter’s clinical opinion.