Describe petrissage in massage techniques.

Petrissage is a massage technique characterized by its kneading action, which involves the manipulation of muscles and soft tissues. This technique is designed to improve circulation, enhance the flexibility of the muscles, and promote relaxation. During petrissage, the therapist uses their hands or fingers to lift, knead, roll, or squeeze the underlying tissues, which can effectively relieve tension and reduce muscle soreness.

This kneading action is distinct from other techniques such as tapping or gliding. Tapping, for instance, typically involves more rhythmic movements that stimulate the skin but do not focus on deep muscle manipulation. Similarly, gentle gliding movements are often more superficial and do not engage the deeper layers of tissue the way petrissage does. An aggressive deep tissue technique, on the other hand, targets specific knots and deeper muscle layers with significant pressure, rather than the rhythmic kneading that defines petrissage. Therefore, option B accurately captures the essence of petrissage and its primary purpose in massage therapy.