What is cupping and how is it performed?
Cupping is an ancient art that originally started in China, but has been practiced all over the world. A vacuum is created, either through fire or suction, which will pull the skin into the cup. The suction on the skin will help separate the layers of fascia (connective tissue).
Cupping can be done in many different manners, and we can discuss which is best for you:
- Stationary/static cupping: Cups are applied to the skin and left in place from 1-30 minutes. This type of application will most likely result in markings.
- Cupping massage: the cups are applied to the skin and then the cups are glided along the skin. Chances of markings are reduced, but can still happen.
- Anchor and stretch: two cups are applied: one cup remains stationary while the second cup is moved around. This method is great for the releasing of fascia (connective tissue) and reduction of scar tissue.
- Range of motion: cups are applied around joints or along muscles followed by moving a joint through its range of motion. This is very effective in increase range of motion.
Bruises are due to a trauma to the area, and are tender and swollen.
Markings from cupping are not painful, may take up to 24 hours to appear and can last up to 2 weeks. Think of them like hickeys.
There may be some discomfort to the areas that are cupped as we are addressing the connective tissues, so proper home care will be advised, such as: increasing your water intake, hot bath/shower or epsom salt baths.
Silicone cups are great for cupping massage as the cups are flexible and are more likely to hold the suction when going over joints (shoulders, knees). Suction is created by either applying pressure to the top of the cup or pinching it together before applying the cups to the skin. The more you pinch the cup together, the more suction that is produced.
Plastic cups are great for stationary/static cupping. These cups are inserted into the suction gun before applying them to the skin. Once the cups are in place, a few pulls of the handle on the gun will create a suction. The more pulls that are done, the more suction is created.
Why you should try cupping
Cupping is very effective to reduce tension in muscles, increase mobility in fascia (connective tissue), increase range of motion, decrease pain, increase circulation and increase relaxation.
Headaches, plantar fasciiatis, sciatica, TMJ, whiplash, restless leg syndrome, trigger points, chronic pain, adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), rotator cuff pain, low back pain and much more!!
Cost of cupping
As of now, there will be no additonal fee. However, at a later date, there will be a small fee of $5-$10 added to a massage if cupping is used.