Kneading movements involve pinching and circular movements using which part of the hand?

• A. Wrists
• B. Knuckles
• C. Palms
• D. Fingertips

Answer: (B)

Kneading, or petrissage, is about lifting and squeezing tissue to loosen muscle tension and boost circulation. Using the knuckles provides a firm, controlled contact point that allows you to apply the necessary depth and circular pinching movements without slipping. This firmer surface lets you press into deeper layers of muscle and create the rolling, kneading action that effectively loosens adhesions. In contrast, the wrists are joints rather than contact points, the palms spread pressure too broadly for depth, and the fingertips, while precise, don’t deliver the same level of firm pressure needed for this technique.