Kneading in massage is referred to as what?

Kneading in massage is referred to as petrissage, which is a technique characterized by lifting, squeezing, and kneading muscle tissue. This method helps to improve circulation, alleviate muscle tension, and promote relaxation. It effectively targets deeper muscle layers, making it beneficial for reducing soreness and enhancing mobility.

Other techniques such as effleurage involve long, gliding strokes that are primarily used at the beginning and end of a massage to warm up the tissue and provide relaxation. Compression focuses on applying pressure to specific points without moving the tissue, whereas tapotement consists of rhythmic percussion movements that stimulate the muscles. Understanding these differences is crucial for applying the appropriate techniques in various massage therapies and achieving desired outcomes for clients.