Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

What type of massage technique involves slapping or hacking?

1. Effleurage

2. Petrissage

3. Tapotement

4. Friction

The correct answer is: Tapotement

The type of massage technique that involves slapping or hacking is known as tapotement. This technique is characterized by rhythmic tapping or striking movements performed with the hands or fingers, which can include a variety of actions such as slapping, hacking, or cupping. Tapotement is often used to invigorate the muscles, stimulate blood flow, and promote relaxation through its percussive effects. This technique is distinct from others like effleurage, which involves long, gliding strokes designed to warm the tissues, petrissage that includes kneading and squeezing to enhance circulation and relieve tension, and friction, which involves deeper pressure and rubbing of the muscle fibers to release adhesion. Each technique serves different purposes within the context of massage therapy, but tapotement specifically highlights the impact of dynamic, striking movements on the body.