What is NOT a technique included in massage therapy?

In the context of massage therapy, differential diagnosis is a process used by healthcare professionals to determine the specific medical condition or cause of a patient's symptoms. It involves evaluating various possible diseases or conditions based on patient history, examination, and tests. While important in the overall healthcare process, differential diagnosis is not a massage technique itself; rather, it is a part of the broader clinical assessment that may inform treatment decisions but does not involve hands-on therapeutic manipulation.

On the other hand, effleurage, compression, and vibration are all recognized techniques used in massage therapy. Effleurage refers to smooth, gliding strokes typically used to start and end a massage session. Compression involves applying pressure to tissues, often enhancing circulation and relieving tension. Vibration includes small, rapid movements that can energize the body and help with relaxation. Thus, while differential diagnosis plays a role in guiding care, it does not pertain to the direct practices of massage therapy.