What term refers to the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body?

The term that refers to the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body is massage. This practice encompasses a variety of techniques aimed at stimulating the muscles, tissues, and circulatory system. Massage can involve different methods, including but not limited to kneading, stroking, and pressing, all designed to alleviate tension and promote relaxation.

While effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement are specific techniques used within the broader context of massage, they each refer to particular styles or movements rather than the overall practice itself. Effleurage describes a gentle stroking movement, petrissage involves kneading or squeezing, and tapotement consists of rhythmic tapping or percussion. Therefore, they are components of the broader term "massage," which represents the comprehensive concept of soft tissue manipulation.