Pressure in massage is usually directed from the _____.

• A. Origin to insertion
• B. Proximal to distal
• C. Distal to proximal
• D. Insertion to origin

Answer: (D)

Pressure is directed from the insertion toward the origin because this follows the muscle along its length toward the fixed attachment, helping to release tension and adhesions along the entire muscle. By moving from the moving end toward the anchor, you encourage the fibers to unwind and relax in the direction they pull when contracting, making a gradual, more comfortable release. For example, with a muscle like the biceps, you’d apply pressure near the elbow and move toward the shoulder. Pushing from the origin toward the insertion can feel less effective and may resist release, since you’re going against the typical path of tissue relaxation during massage.