Colorado Esthetician Written Practice Exam

Which massage technique is characterized by a kneading pinching movement?

1. Effleurage

2. Petrissage

3. Tapotement

4. Vibration

The correct answer is: Petrissage

Petrissage is the correct answer because it is the massage technique characterized by a kneading and pinching movement. This technique involves gently lifting and squeezing the skin and underlying muscles between the fingers and thumbs. Petrissage helps to increase circulation, relax tense muscles, and release toxins trapped in the muscles. Effleurage is a light, gentle stroking movement used at the beginning and end of a massage session. Tapotement involves rhythmic tapping or percussion movements on the skin. Vibration consists of fine, rapid shaking movements applied with the fingertips or palm of the hand. These techniques serve different purposes and are not characterized by a kneading pinching movement like petrissage.