Cupping

Cupping therapy is a form of alternative medicine in which cups are placed on the skin to create suction and negative pressure. It is used to lessen tight muscles, loosen adhesions, and separate layers of connective tissue by bringing hydration and blood flow to body tissues. Cupping is versatile and can easily be modified to accomplish a range of techniques, from facilitation of lymphatic drainage to deep-tissue myofascial release. Tissue restrictions especially in the fascia can cause pain, decreased range of motion (ROM), impair alignment, asymmetry and sub-optimal muscle performance.

The marks left from cupping dissipate from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the amount of stagnation and post treatment activities. Usually, the greatest amount of deposits being drawn to the surface will occur in the first few treatments. The marks will lessen in intensity as the deeper issues are resolved and stagnations and toxins are processed out of the body via the circulatory and lymphatic systems. Although the marks look painful, they are not; Patients can usually feel an immediate sense of relief.