Cupping

How does cupping work?

Cupping is a rather complex technique. Our Gadsden physical therapists will use rubber pumps or silicone cups and put them upside down on your skin. As the air in the cup begins to cool, a vacuum is created, causing the skin to rise and the blood vessels to expand.

Cupping is sometimes referred to as a “tissue distraction release” technique. Cups glide over various parts of the body during the process to raise and separate tissue.

This causes neural tissues, fascia, skin, ligaments, muscles, and tendons to loosen more easily. Cupping works by relaxing muscles, releasing trigger points, stimulating lymphatic flow, increasing local circulation, and releasing scar tissue adhesion.

Types of methods

It is no secret that the practice of cupping among athletes is common and widespread. Several athletes from the 2016 Rio Olympics used cupping.

There are three types of techniques available: longitudinal, cross-fiber, and circular. Longitudinal is the most common form in which the cup glides longitudinally across the muscle fibers.

Cross fiber is used when the tissue is believed to be scarred. Circular is typically used at the end of the session to ensure that all areas have been covered.

Can cupping help my specific condition?

It is important to bear in mind that cups are not a method of treatment involving wounds, infections, burns, or active inflammation of the skin.

Evidence supports cupping as an effective treatment technique for many disorders, such as chronic neck pain, low back pain, and fibromyalgia.

While there are some doubts about cupping, there is science behind the technique. The suction in the cups produces negative pressure, which helps increase hydration and blood flow to body tissues, reduce bondage, and eliminate excess fluids.

If you need lymphatic drainage or deep tissue massage, this is a versatile treatment that can be tailored to your condition.

There are many benefits associated with cupping. It can boost your skin’s health, help with respiratory problems, and even improve digestion. It is also used to speed up the recovery time and reduce symptoms of certain injuries and illnesses.

It’s also important to be aware that cupping can also cause bruises that can last up to two weeks on the skin. Bruises usually repair themselves over time, and they’re not something to worry about!