Massage & Bodywork Licensing Practice Examination (MBLEx)

The four main types of massage techniques are indeed effleurage, petrissage, friction, and tapotement. Understanding these techniques is essential as they form the foundational elements of various massage practices.

Effleurage involves long, gliding strokes that are often used at the beginning and end of a massage to promote relaxation and increase circulation. This technique helps to warm up the muscles and prepares the body for deeper work.

Petrissage consists of kneading or squeezing motions that target deeper layers of tissue. This technique aids in muscle tension relief and improves blood flow, making it effective for addressing areas of stiffness and tightness.

Friction is a technique characterized by small, circular movements that create localized pressure on specific muscle groups. It is particularly useful for breaking down adhesions, improving mobility, and enhancing tissue flexibility.

Tapotement includes rhythmic tapping or percussion movements, which can invigorate the muscles and stimulate nerve endings. This technique is often used to enhance alertness and energize the recipient.

Options that include categories of massage, such as Swedish or deep tissue, refer to specific styles or approaches rather than the basic techniques themselves. While they incorporate some of these foundational techniques, they do not represent the primary types of movements used in massage therapy.