Which massage technique is also known as percussion?

The massage technique known as percussion is identified as tapotement. This technique involves rhythmic tapping or striking movements applied to the skin, which can be administered with the fingertips or palms. The purpose of tapotement is to stimulate the muscles and skin, enhance circulation, and promote relaxation. It can also be invigorating, making it an ideal method for using in a massage to energize clients.

In contrast, effleurage involves long, gliding strokes typically used to begin or end a massage, focusing more on relaxation and soothing muscle tension. Petrissage consists of kneading movements that help to manipulate the muscles and tissues, providing deeper relaxation and alleviating tension. Friction, on the other hand, involves circular or back-and-forth movements that create heat and bring circulation to specific areas, often focusing on muscle knots or tightness. Each of these techniques plays a unique role in massage therapy, but tapotement specifically categorizes the percussion technique.