College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

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What technique involves the rhythmic squeezing and release of muscle tissue?

Effleurage
Petrissage
Tapotement
Vibrations

The correct answer is: Petrissage

Petrissage is a massage technique characterized by the rhythmic squeezing, rolling, and lifting of muscles. This technique is particularly effective in stimulating circulation and promoting relaxation of muscle tissue. The action of squeezing and releasing helps to encourage blood flow and can aid in the breakdown of adhesions and tension within the muscles. Petrissage is commonly used to alleviate tightness, enhance flexibility, and facilitate the overall therapeutic effects of massage. In contrast, effleurage is a gliding stroke used mainly for relaxation and as a preliminary treatment, tapotement involves rhythmic percussion movements, and vibrations typically consist of oscillatory actions applied to the muscles. Each of these techniques has its own distinct applications and benefits, but they do not specifically involve the rhythmic squeezing and release that defines petrissage.