Final answer:
Tapotement is a light, tapping massage technique used to stimulate nerves and blood flow in muscles. It involves rapid, alternating movements with the hands or fingertips, similar to rhythm in arts, and serves both therapeutic and invigorating purposes in massage therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tapotement is a massage technique that involves a light, tapping movement with the hand or fingertips. It is one of the five basic strokes of Swedish massage and is useful for stimulating circulation and increasing localised blood flow. During a tapotement movement, the practitioner uses rapid, alternating hand motions to effectively tap the muscles. This can either be in the form of fingertip tapping, cupped hand tapping, or the sides of the hand coming into contact with the body. The technique is believed to stimulate the nerves and can be refreshing for the client, especially when used at the end of a massage session to invigorate the body.
Similar to the rhythmic movement seen in arts to demonstrate movement or expanse, tapotement has its own rhythm that conveys a form of physical stimulation. In medicine, rapid, alternating movements are also explored for neurological examinations, but tapotement specifically refers to the therapeutic practice in massage therapy and physiotherapy. As a neuromuscular technique, it is not only soothing but also can help relieve muscle tension and cramps.