Which technique involves small, circular motions often used to warm up a specific area?

The technique that involves small, circular motions often used to warm up a specific area is known as friction. Friction massage is characterized by its focused application, using the fingertips to create small, circular movements on the skin. This technique helps to increase blood flow to the area, enhance tissue elasticity, and prepare the muscles and connective tissues for further treatment or exercise.

Friction is typically employed at the beginning of a session to alleviate tension in specific muscle groups or areas of discomfort. Its technique contrasts with the others mentioned, which serve different purposes: effleurage involves gliding strokes used primarily for relaxation and to stimulate circulation; petrissage is focused on kneading and compression to target deeper muscle layers; and tapotement consists of rhythmic percussion movements that energize the muscles. Each technique plays a distinct role in manual therapy, but it is friction that specifically utilizes small, circular motions to effectively warm up targeted areas.