Which massage technique is used to induce a sedative effect?

Which massage technique is used to induce a sedative effect?

• A. Effleurage
• B. Petrissage
• C. Friction
• D. Tapotement

Answer: (A)

Effleurage promotes relaxation through long, slow, gliding strokes performed with light to moderate pressure and constant contact. The rhythmic, soothing nature of these strokes helps calm the nervous system by activating the parasympathetic response, lowering heart rate and reducing muscle tension, which creates a sedative, calming effect. It’s typically used at the start and end of a session to ease the client into relaxation and wind down. Petrissage involves kneading and lifting tissue, which is more about deeper tissue work and can feel stimulating or warming. Friction is a focused, small-area rubbing that generates heat and helps with adhesions, which can also be provocative to tissue. Tapotement consists of tapping or hacking methods that are often energizing and stimulating. Because of these effects, they’re less associated with inducing a sedative state.

Effleurage promotes relaxation through long, slow, gliding strokes performed with light to moderate pressure and constant contact. The rhythmic, soothing nature of these strokes helps calm the nervous system by activating the parasympathetic response, lowering heart rate and reducing muscle tension, which creates a sedative, calming effect. It’s typically used at the start and end of a session to ease the client into relaxation and wind down.

Petrissage involves kneading and lifting tissue, which is more about deeper tissue work and can feel stimulating or warming. Friction is a focused, small-area rubbing that generates heat and helps with adhesions, which can also be provocative to tissue. Tapotement consists of tapping or hacking methods that are often energizing and stimulating. Because of these effects, they’re less associated with inducing a sedative state.