Pennsylvania Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which area of the body should NOT be stimulated by petrissage movements during a massage?

1. Face

2. Neck

3. Chest

4. Liver

The correct answer is: Liver

Petrissage is a type of massage technique that involves kneading, squeezing, and rolling the muscles to promote relaxation and improve circulation. While areas like the face, neck, and chest can benefit from this technique due to their muscle composition and the potential for enhanced blood flow, certain areas should be avoided for safety reasons. The liver is an internal organ, and direct stimulation through petrissage movements is not appropriate. This area is protected by the ribcage, and vigorous manipulation or pressure could potentially harm the organ or disrupt its normal functioning. Rather than enhancing well-being, applying such movements near the liver could pose health risks. Therefore, avoiding petrissage on the liver is essential for both safety and ethical practice within the field of esthetics. This understanding emphasizes the importance of knowing anatomy and the functional implications of various massage techniques while practicing as an esthetician.