Which massage technique involves rapid, alternating movements such as tapping and cupping?

The technique associated with rapid, alternating movements such as tapping and cupping is known as tapotement. This form of massage is characterized by its rhythmic and percussive actions, which can include various hand movements like hacking, cupping, and tapping. Tapotement is often utilized to stimulate circulation, invigorate the body, and enhance muscle relaxation.

In contrast, effleurage involves long, gliding strokes that promote relaxation and circulation without the rapid, precise impact of tapotement. Petrissage focuses on kneading and squeezing the muscles, providing deeper tissue manipulation that targets muscle tension and improves pliability. Friction, on the other hand, is a technique meant to create deep pressure and heat through small circular movements, often used to resolve adhesions and deep tissue issues rather than offer the quick, stimulating effect of tapotement.

Understanding these distinctions helps to appreciate how each massage technique serves different therapeutic purposes in physical therapy and rehabilitation.