What is a typical stroke pattern for a back rub?

• A. Short, quick circles around the shoulders
• B. Gentle tapping with fingertips
• C. Long, smooth strokes from the lower back toward the shoulders
• D. Scrubbing motion across the back

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that a back rub uses broad, continuous strokes to promote relaxation and improve circulation. Long, smooth strokes from the lower back toward the shoulders allow the hands to glide over a large area with steady pressure, helping to spread lotion evenly and ease tension along the back and into the upper body. This direction also follows the natural muscle lines and promotes venous return, contributing to a soothing, cohesive sensation for the recipient.

Short, quick circles around the shoulders are localized and can feel abrupt, which isn’t ideal for a relaxing back massage. Gentle tapping with fingertips is percussion rather than the flowing technique used in a back rub, and scrubbing across the back is too abrasive and disruptive to relaxation.