In clinical practice, transverse friction massage is primarily indicated for:

Transverse friction massage is a specific technique that focuses on the treatment of tendons and the surrounding tissues. It is especially effective for addressing conditions related to overuse or irritation of tendons, making it a valuable intervention for acute tendonitis. This technique works by creating friction across the tendon fibers, which helps to break down adhesions and promote healing through increased blood flow and stimulation of the inflammatory response.

In the context of tendonitis, transverse friction massage can help alleviate pain and improve the function of the affected tendon. The application of this technique is best suited when there is a condition that requires targeting the tendon specifically, making it most appropriate for acute tendonitis, where the goal is to stimulate healing and reduce pain.

Other options involve conditions that are not primarily treated with transverse friction massage. Chronic pain syndromes often require a multi-faceted approach, joint effusion typically is managed through different therapeutic techniques aimed at reducing swelling, and severe muscle spasms may warrant interventions such as stretching or a different form of massage that applies to muscles rather than tendons. Thus, transverse friction massage's primary indication aligns most closely with acute tendonitis.