Cupping
What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is a technique used to assist with pain management, decrease muscle or fascia tightness and promote healing.
This is done by attaching plastic, glass, or silicone cups to the skin via suction.
Cupping differs from other techniques because it provides a decompressive force to the tissues. This negative pressure draws blood flow to the area which sparks an inflammatory process to promote healing. This technique facilitates the release of fascial restrictions. By addressing these adhesions, which can contribute to pain and stiffness, cupping aims to:
- Reduce muscle pain and tension
- Improve flexibility and range of motion
- Promote healing and tissue repair
- Boost circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Enhance athletic performance
Typically, the therapist leaves the cups in place or moves them around for 5-10 minutes.
The therapist can also assist the patient with moving through motions that they are having difficulty performing due to pain or tightness. This technique can leave marks on the skin, but each individual is different regarding how long the marks will last. Some marks disappear within a few minutes, and some can last several days.
If you suffer from any of the following, cupping may be able to help:
- Muscle strains and tears
- Tendonitis and bursitis
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Scar tissue buildup
- Limited joint mobility
- Sports injuries
- Fibromyalgia
What to Expect During a Session:
- Consultation: Your physical therapist will discuss your goals, assess your needs, and determine if cupping is suitable for you.
- Preparation: The therapist will clean your skin and explain the process.
- Treatment: Using specialized cups, the therapist will create controlled suction on targeted areas for a set duration.
- Your therapist will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Ready to Explore Cupping Therapy?