Cross friction primarily targets which tissue type?

• A. Vascular tissue
• B. Non-vascular connective tissue
• C. Neural tissue
• D. Epithelial tissue

Answer: (B)

Cross friction massage targets fibrous, poorly vascularized tissues—dense connective tissue like tendons, ligaments, and scar tissue. These tissues heal mainly through local fibroblast activity and collagen remodeling rather than rapid blood supply. Applying deep, transverse friction across the fibers creates controlled microtrauma that stimulates fibroblasts to lay down and realign collagen, breaking down adhesions and improving fiber glide. It isn’t aimed at vascular tissue, neural tissue, or epithelial tissue, which have different structures and healing mechanisms.