What is tapotement in massage therapy?

Tapotement is a specific massage technique characterized by rhythmic tapping or bashing motions that stimulate the muscles and nerves. It typically involves the use of the hands or fingers to produce a percussion-like effect against the skin, creating a sensation that can invigorate and energize the body. This technique helps in enhancing circulation, promoting muscle tone, and can also aid in the release of tension in the muscles.

The stimulating nature of tapotement can wake up the nervous system, making it useful in various therapeutic contexts, especially when aiming to energize or prepare the body for activity. This distinguishes it clearly from techniques involving long strokes, warming up tissue, or cooling down muscles, which do not involve the same specific rhythmic percussion movements integral to tapotement.