Cupping Massage
Massage Cupping combines massage movements and negative pressure using a suction device on the skin. The produced vacuum creates a suction effect that increases blood and lymphatic circulation systemically and to the local area, by stretching rigid tissues away from underlying structures, thus loosening areas of adhesions and restrictions, softening and nourishing muscle tissue, while drawing stagnation, pathogenic factors, and toxins out of the body. Cupping is also very beneficial for many conditions such as high blood pressure, anxiety, fatigue, chronic headache, fibromyalgia and neuralgia.
Another benefit of negative pressure is that it's not irritating the skin or body. It draws the inflammation out, yet does not add to it. The pulling action engages the parasympathetic nervous system (the healing aspect of the nervous system), thus allowing a deep relaxation to move through the entire body.
All in all, cupping just feels good. It is not unusual to fall asleep when receiving this treatment. Clients are surprised at how relaxed, warm and light they feel hours after the treatment.
Again, the Benefits:
- Deep tissue work and release without the discomfort of force.
- Moves stagnation and drains fluids
- Reduces inflammation
- Nervous system sedation
- Breaks up and expels congestion systemically
- Stretches muscle and connective tissues
- Releases adhesions
- Increases blood supply to the skin
- Facilitates the movement of Qi and blood systemically and locally.
- Dispels wind, damp and cold to treat muscle and joint pain, stiffness and arthritis.
- Treats excess heat conditions, fever, stress, depression and anxiety.
- Strengthens the immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system and the flow of lymphatic fluid.
- Cleans the blood and lymph and helps to balance PH levels.
Benefits of Cupping on Sports Performance:
- Improved Muscle Recovery - Cupping helps with muscle recovery from intense physical activity by promoting increased blood flow and lymphatic drainage which can aid in removing metabolic waste products and reduce inflammation that leads to muscle repair. The enhanced exchange of fluids allows for a higher output of energy without exhausting the muscle while also providing more oxygen to the muscle.
- Enhanced Performance - The release of muscular tension and increased flexibility may contribute to better athletic performance and reduce the risk of injury. Clients should make sure they drink enough water and are well-hydrated post-treatment.
- Pain Relief - Cupping decompression helps to relieve muscular overuse and tension. It alleviates restrictions and promotes tissue elasticity, therefore improving movement efficiency.
- Expedited Healing - The improved blood flow and circulation to affected areas will help to deliver essential nutrients, oxygen and immune cells to the injured tissues, supporting repair and recovery.
Contraindications:
- Skin conditions: These may include: Excessive dry or cracked skin, open wounds (including injection sites), ulcers, and allergic skin conditions)
- Fractured bones
- Bleeding disorders
- Don’t apply cups directly over varicose veins as it could cause further damage
- Abscesses
- Severe anaemia
- Strong cupping is not recommended for people using blood thinners
- Areas of newly placed tattoos
- Illness
- Diabetic clients (Cupping can be done, but blood sugar and skin conditions may affect the treatment)
- Chemotherapy or radiation
- The first trimester of pregnancy
- Excessive body hair (While this is not a contraindication, it may decrease the effectiveness of the cupping session)
Tools of the trade:
I prefer to work with Silicone and vacuum cups over glass (Sorry, no fire cupping here).
Tip: I recommend proper hydration (pre and post-treatment). The body is approximately 75% structured water and dehydration can impact the results of your treatment. It's always a good idea to stay well-hydrated regardless.