Chinese medicine is credited with developing which type of massage therapy?

Chinese medicine is credited with developing acupressure, a form of bodywork that employs the same principles as acupuncture but uses manual pressure instead of needles. In acupressure, practitioners apply pressure to specific points on the body known as acupoints, which correspond to energy pathways or meridians. This technique is rooted in the fundamental concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which focus on the balance of Qi (life energy) for maintaining health. Acupressure aims to alleviate pain, reduce stress, and promote relaxation by stimulating these acupoints, thereby facilitating the flow of Qi and enhancing overall well-being.

The other options represent different techniques or modalities not specifically developed within the context of Chinese medicine: shiatsu, while associated with Japanese practice influenced by TCM, is distinct; tapotement is a specific type of stroke used in various massage therapies; and effleurage refers to a French term for a gliding stroke often used in Swedish massage.