Tapotement includes techniques such as cupping, hacking, and pinching. Which option best describes this technique?

• A. Kneading and picking up tissue
• B. Heat producing, stretching underlying tissue
• C. Cupping, hacking, pinching
• D. Stimulating sensation of sensory nerves

Answer: (C)

Tapotement is a percussive massage technique that uses rhythmic, rapid strikes to stimulate the skin and underlying tissues. Techniques like cupping, hacking, and pinching fit this category because each involves a percussive contact that taps or strikes the body to provoke a response in the tissues. This is different from kneading and picking up tissue, which is petrissage and focuses on deep compression and lifting rather than percussive tapping. Descriptions that emphasize heat production or stretching underlying tissue point to other modalities or goals, not tapotement. So, cupping, hacking, and pinching best describe tapotement.