Which is NOT one of the five basic massage strokes?

• A. Effleurage
• B. Petrissage
• C. Tapotement
• D. Ultrasound

Answer: (D)

Ultrasound is not a massage stroke because the five basic massage strokes are manual techniques used in Swedish-style massage: effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration. Effleurage consists of long, gliding strokes to warm and relax the tissues; petrissage involves kneading and lifting the muscles to improve circulation and reduce tension; tapotement uses rhythmic percussion to stimulate nerves and muscles; friction applies deep, focused rubbing to break up adhesions; and vibration involves rapid shaking or trembling to promote relaxation and fluid movement. Ultrasound, on the other hand, is a therapeutic modality that uses high-frequency sound waves delivered via a transducer with coupling gel. It’s device-based, not performed by hand, so it doesn’t count as one of the basic massage strokes.