So what exactly is Cupping?
Cupping is an ancient medicinal modality that is used today in a more modern form by our Myotherapists at Thrive Health Co. with an aim in improving the musculoskeletal system function.
The technique is used in conjunction with other remedial massage techniques to improve the effect of a massage treatment as it helps to stretch the muscle and connective tissue, fascia away from the skeleton.
Silicone vacuum cups are applied to the skin with a hand operated pump to remove the air from the cup. The skin and superficial muscle is raised slightly within the cup and held for the duration of 5-10 minutes.
What does Cupping do to my body?
The skin under the cups will redden as blood is drawn closer to the skin. The technique activates the lymphatic system by encouraging and increasing blood flow to the area. Helping to relieve muscle and fascial tension.
Post treatment there will be some discolouration (as indicated in the image below) on the skin where the cups were on the body. These marks may present as redness or bruising and will fade over the next few days.
After a treatment, patients can sometimes feel light headed or tired. This is completely normal as there is an improved blood flow in and around the congested tissue. We always recommend to increase your water intake to help flush out toxins that your body releases.
When will a Myotherapist use Cupping?
The Myotherapists at Thrive Health Co. use a range of techniques when assessing and treating musculoskeletal dysfunction. From dry needling, electro-dry needling, cupping and remedial massage to help relieve pain, improve movement and muscle tone.
This technique may help patients in acute pain to improve range of motion. It may also help to decrease muscle tightness and give immediate pain relief to those that can’t tolerate remedial massage techniques such as trigger point therapy.
Here is Sarah one of our Myotherapists performing the technique ‘Cupping’ on a patient that had lower back pain.
If you would like to try Cupping Therapy with one of our Myotherapists at Thrive Health Co. please BOOK HERE or call: 07 3716 0199.
