Myofascial Cupping
If you’ve ever experienced tight muscles, restricted movement or stubborn areas of tension you may have come across myofascial cupping. This hands-on therapy has become increasingly popular as part of massage, myotherapy, physiotherapy and other bodywork treatments.
But what exactly is myofascial cupping and how can it help?
What Is Myofascial Cupping?
Myofascial cupping is a therapeutic technique that uses specially designed cups placed on the skin to create gentle suction. The cups may remain stationary for periods of time or can involve moving the cups across the skin and soft tissues.
Myofascial Cupping is commonly used alongside massage and other manual therapies to address areas of muscular and fascial tension.
The term myofascial refers to the muscles and the fascia — the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, nerves and other structures throughout the body.
When these tissues feel tight or restricted, movement can sometimes feel uncomfortable or limited. Myofascial cupping aims to provide a different form of stimulation to these areas.
How Does Cupping Work?
During a treatment your therapist places a cup against the skin and creates suction. The cup may then be gently moved across the treatment area or stays stationary.
The sensation can feel unusual at first but it is generally comfortable. Your therapist can adjust the amount of suction depending on the area being treated and how your body responds.
Cupping may temporarily increase local blood flow and create a lifting sensation through the superficial tissues. It can also provide sensory input that may help you become more aware of areas of tension and movement.
What Are the Potential Benefits?
People seek myofascial cupping for a variety of reasons particularly when they are experiencing muscular tightness or discomfort.
Potential benefits may include:
Helping ease the sensation of muscular tension
Supporting relaxation
Temporarily improving feelings of mobility and flexibility
Providing an alternative form of soft-tissue treatment
Complementing massage or other manual therapy techniques
Increasing awareness of areas that feel tight or restricted
Will Cupping Leave Marks?
One of the most common questions people ask is whether cupping leaves marks.
It can. Circular red, purple or darker marks may appear after treatment. These marks are caused by the suction and increased blood flow in the treated area.
The appearance and duration of the marks vary between individuals. They generally fade over several days.
These marks do not hurt or causing any pain or discomfort.
What Does a Treatment Feel Like?
Everyone experiences cupping differently.
You may feel…..
Gentle pulling or pressure on the skin
A stretching sensation
Warmth in the treated area
A feeling of release as the cup is moved
Your therapist will communicate with you throughout the session and adjust the treatment if needed.
