What is Cupping?
Cupping is one of the many techniques that is implemented in a remedial therapy treatment here at Back in Motion Como. Cupping is a form of alternative medicine that can be traced all the way back to ancient Egyptians around 1500 B.C. Cups are placed on the skin to create suction and are used to help reduce pain, muscle tightness, inflammation, improve blood flow and improve range of motion.
To understand what myofascial cupping is, we first must understand fascia. The myofascial network is a layer comprised of collagen and elastin fibres, just below the skin. This layer keeps your inner organs protected. It also works to absorb the impact of your movements and keeps your muscles working efficiently. Since the entire layer of fascia is a network of fibres, any pain caused by an injury or stress in even a small section gets transmitted to other areas of the body. If fascia is restricted, then muscle contraction is restricted.
How does it work?
Myofascial cupping aids the pliability of this issue by using both Positive and Negative Pressure.
Positive pressure in massage refers to the downward pressure that therapists apply upon the tissue being worked. In myofascial cupping, the centre of the cup displays negative pressure as it creates suction, and the underlying tissue and skin is drawn into the cup. This creates a separation of the different tissues (skin, fascia and muscle). The outside of the cup, however, applies positive pressure as therapists move and glide the cups creating pressure from the edge of the cup. These two forms of pressure work together as the negative pressure separates the underlying tissue and draws blood to the area, while the positive pressure aids in flushing out toxins and bringing fresh oxygenated blood to the surrounding tissue.
What are the cons of cupping?
- Cupping shouldn’t be painful, although it may cause temporary bruising, swelling or soreness depending on the amount of treatment done. These spots typically fade after several days or a week. Due to the bruising that can occur, it is advised that cupping not be done over eczema or psoriasis as it can often worsen it.
- Cupping is not recommended for those who suffer with blood disorders, heart disease or those on blood thinners.
Why should you consider cupping?
- It betters your blood circulation.
- Can help to relieving swelling and/or prevent scarring.
- It helps to reduce discomfort and tension in muscle tissue.
- Works to relieve chronic pain in back, shoulders and neck.
- Improved range of movement and mobility by directly reducing any fascial adhesions.
- Increases tissue temperature.
If you would like to learn more about massage therapy, our Remedial Massage Therapist at Back In Motion Como would love to help!
Website: https://www.backinmotion.com.au/como
Phone Number: 9313 3414