The rubbing technique can be divided into finger rubbing, palm rubbing, fish edge rubbing, elbow rubbing, and palm root rubbing.
Operational requirements
(1) Relax the shoulders, hang the elbows, and place the upper limbs relaxed in front of the body, with the elbow joint slightly flexed at about 120°.
(2) Use the elbow joint as a fulcrum, actively swing the forearm, and gently rotate the wrist and hand in a smooth and gentle motion.
(3) Apply pressure with the fingertips, palm root, or fish edge to the treatment area and hold it in place, without sliding or friction during the procedure.
Key points of action
The rubbing technique emphasizes the importance of "holding in place", with stable and steady movements, and the underlying tissues should be in motion while the skin remains still. The movements should be even and coordinated, with appropriate speed and intensity, and the frequency of hand movements should be 120 to 160 times per minute. Depending on clinical needs, the rubbing range can be large or small, and can also start small and gradually increase. The force should be light, quick, and gentle, evenly penetrating without pressing down or floating.
Clinical application
The rubbing technique is characterized by its light, quick, and gentle nature, and is suitable for various parts of the body. It is often used in combination with pressing, kneading, and rubbing techniques. It has the effects of relaxing tendons and promoting collaterals, warming the meridians and dispelling cold, promoting blood circulation and dispersing stasis, reducing swelling and relieving pain, broadening the chest and regulating qi, invigorating the spleen and stomach, and regulating gastrointestinal motility. Finger rubbing is mostly used for the head, face, chest and abdomen, neck and limbs; palm rubbing is mostly used for the shoulders, back, waist, hips, and lower limbs; fish edge rubbing is mostly used for the head, face, neck, chest and abdomen, and limbs.
