Myofascial Cupping
a. Negative pressure gradient, or suction, helps to ‘create space’ in the tissue underlying the skin which helps with…
i. Promoting movement between fibrotic or stiff subcutaneous tissues including the muscle and fascia.
ii. Stimulates blood flow to the area being treated. Remember blood flow = healing
iii. Fluid exchange in the interstitial spaces (blood flow and lymph tissue)
iv. Neuro chemical response or enhancing the treated body parts sensory connection with the brain. Helps to restore normal movement patterns
Some may be familiar with circular ‘bruising’ seen on athletes who have been treated with this technique, however, bruising does not equate directly with success. You may have a successful treatment with or without bruising. Any bruising or skin discoloration that occurs post treatment typically resolves within a few hours of the session. Some may linger for a few days or a week or two, but is not harmful to your system. The skin discoloration post treatment is not fully understood, but is likely related to a histamine response in the body.
Clinical benefits of cupping
i. Pain reduction
ii. Promote healing
iii. Promote blood flow
iv. Helps restore functional movement in the myofascial system
v. Increase body sensory coordination and integration with desired movement pattern
The treating therapist will determine through the evaluation process if cupping is right for you. If it is not, another treatment methodology will be implemented that is appropriate.