True or False: The term massage therapy includes techniques like effleurage and petrissage.

The term massage therapy encompasses a variety of techniques aimed at promoting relaxation, reducing tension, and facilitating healing. Effleurage and petrissage are two fundamental techniques used in massage therapy.

Effleurage refers to long, sweeping strokes that are typically used to warm up the body and allow the therapist to assess muscle tension. Petrissage involves kneading and squeezing muscles, which can help to release tightness and encourage circulation. Both techniques are foundational to many massage modalities and contribute significantly to the overall practice of massage therapy.

Since the question asks if massage therapy includes these techniques, the answer is true. Understanding the breadth of methods within massage therapy is essential for practitioners, as it allows for tailored treatments addressing a client's specific needs. Thus, recognizing that effleurage and petrissage are integral to massage therapy reflects a comprehensive understanding of the field.