Which areas should percussion never be performed on?

Percussion is a massage technique that involves rhythmic striking or tapping on the body to stimulate circulation, relax muscles, and enhance overall tissue function. However, performing percussion on bony areas is generally advised against. This is because bony structures lack the protective cushioning that muscles and soft tissues provide, making them susceptible to damage.

When percussion is applied to bony areas, there’s a risk of causing discomfort or even injury to the bones and surrounding tissues. Instead, percussion is best used on muscular and soft tissue areas, where the impact can promote relaxation and improve blood flow without risk to fragile structures.

This consideration leads to avoiding bony areas during percussion, ensuring that the technique is both safe and effective for promoting systemic benefits in massage therapy.