Cupping

We’ve all watched the Olympics and seen the bruises, but what’s cupping all about? Great question. Let’s dive in.

An ancient Eastern Medicine technique, cupping was seen as early as 400BC to treat internal diseases such as pneumonia and bronchitis as well as structural problems. It was thought to work to “dispel stagnation” of the blood by pulling up blood and lymph and improving the flow of the qi. Traditionally, this was performed with glass cups and fire to create suction underneath.

Fast forward a few thousand years, and cupping is having another moment for itself. It’s now used not only by Eastern Medicine practitioners but also by physical therapists, athletic trainers, chiropracters, and massage therapists. Modern cups are made out of hard plastic and use a suction pump or can also be made out of soft silicone and used without a pump. Recent evidence has shown that when done correctly, cupping is as effective as heat, stretching, and foam rolling at releasing muscle tightness, improving flexibility, and improving pain findings.

So how does it work? Well, cupping is fairly unique among soft tissue techniques in that it is decompressive. This means that it can feel really nice on areas that hurt to touch or massage. It works by decompressing and distracting the tissues to:

• Increase the movement of fluid between muscles, fascia, and skin

• Alter local blood flow and metabolic exchange including lactic acid clearance

• Help to decrease excitability of triggerpoints

• Stimulate sensory nerves of the skin and reduce hypersensitivity/hypervigilance.

Cupping works great for tendinitis, chronic pain, spasms, stiffness, muscle pulls, and more. Schedule a discovery call or visit to learn more!