Tapotement

Tapotement is a type of massage technique that involves rhythmic percussion, most frequently administered with the edge of the hand, a cupped hand or the tips of the fingers. There are five types of tapotement including: beating, slapping, hacking, tapping and cupping.

History

The term "tapotement" is derived from the French word "tapoter", which translates to "tap" or "pat" in English. This technique has been used in various forms of massage therapy, including Swedish massage, for centuries.

Technique

In tapotement, the hands are lifted repeatedly off the body, creating a percussive and rhythmic effect. The five types of tapotement techniques are:

• Beating: The hands are made into loose fists and used to strike the body lightly and rapidly.
• Slapping: The palms of the hands are used to slap the body, with fingers relaxed so that they can flap against the skin.
• Hacking: The edges of the hands are used to strike the body in rapid succession.
• Tapping: The fingertips are used to tap rapidly on the body.
• Cupping: The hands are cupped and used to strike the body, creating a vacuum effect.

Uses

Tapotement is used to stimulate and invigorate areas of the body. It can increase local blood circulation and tone muscles. It is often used in sports massage to help athletes' muscles relax and warm up. It can also be used in respiratory therapy to help loosen mucus in the lungs.

See also

• Massage
• Swedish massage
• Sports massage
• Respiratory therapy

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