New York Nail Technician License Practice Test

Tapotement is another term for which basic massage movement?

1. Compression

2. Effleurage

3. Percussion

4. Kneading

The correct answer is: Percussion

Tapotement refers specifically to a form of massage that involves rhythmic, tapping movements, which stimulates the skin and underlying tissues. This technique is often used to invigorate and energize the client, making it quite distinct from other massage movements. When considering the various types of massage techniques, percussion is characterized by a series of rapid, light taps or drumming motions applied to the skin with the fingers or palms. This aligns closely with the definition of tapotement, thus making it the correct association. In contrast, compression involves pressing or squeezing techniques that aim to relieve tension in the muscles. Effleurage consists of long, sweeping strokes that are typically used at the beginning and end of a massage to warm up the tissues and promote relaxation. Kneading, on the other hand, involves lifting and squeezing muscles, similar to the action of kneading dough, which targets deeper muscle layers. While each of these techniques has its unique benefits and applications, tapotement directly correlates to percussion, making it the appropriate choice in this context.