National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) Practice Exam

Petrissage is characterized by slow, kneading strokes that involve lifting, squeezing, and rolling the muscles. This technique is effective for promoting relaxation, enhancing circulation, and relieving muscle tension. The slow and rhythmic nature of petrissage strokes helps to warm up the tissues and facilitate deeper penetration into the muscle fibers, which can aid in the recovery and rejuvenation of the area being treated.

In contrast, effleurage consists of long, sweeping strokes primarily used at the beginning and end of a massage to encourage relaxation and prepare the body for deeper techniques. Tapotement involves a series of percussive movements, such as tapping or chopping, which invigorate the muscles and stimulate circulation, rather than focusing on kneading. Friction consists of small, circular movements applied with pressure, aimed at breaking down adhesions and increasing local circulation, but is more about intensity and depth than the kneading action characteristic of petrissage.