Massage Therapist Massage Techniques and Effects Questions and Answers Flashcards

Which massage technique involves rhythmic tapping movements performed with cupped hands or the edge of the hand?

Answer: Tapotement

Tapotement consists of rhythmic percussive strikes using cupped hands, fists, or the edge of the hand to stimulate muscles.

What is the primary physiological effect of deep transverse friction massage on tendons and ligaments?

Answer: Breaking down adhesions and promoting proper fiber alignment

Deep transverse friction works across the grain of tissue fibers to break adhesions and encourage realignment of collagen fibers during healing.

During a Swedish massage, which stroke is typically used to assess tissue quality at the beginning of a session?

Answer: Effleurage

Effleurage is a long gliding stroke used to warm tissues, apply lubricant, and allow the therapist to palpate and assess the client's tissue quality.

Which physiological mechanism explains how massage reduces muscle spasm?

Answer: Activation of the Golgi tendon organ reflex causing muscle relaxation

Sustained pressure on a muscle activates Golgi tendon organs, which trigger an inhibitory reflex that reduces muscle tension and spasm.

What distinguishes myofascial release from traditional Swedish massage techniques?

Answer: It applies sustained pressure to fascial restrictions without lubricant

Myofascial release uses slow, sustained pressure applied directly to fascial restrictions, typically without lubricant to allow the therapist to engage the tissue.

Which effect does the application of petrissage have on local blood circulation?

Answer: It increases venous and lymphatic return through a pumping action

The kneading, lifting, and squeezing motions of petrissage create a pumping effect that enhances venous return and lymphatic drainage in the treated area.