Massage cupping
Treating plantar fasciitis.
Massage cupping is a modified version of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practice of cupping therapy. Used extensively in TCM, cupping has been adapted for use by massage therapists, physical therapists, and aestheticians. Through the application of negative pressure (suction), cupping is used to soften tight muscles, move stagnant fluid, calm the nervous system, release adhesions and connective tissue, and open lymphatic channels. Depending on the type of treatment, it is not uncommon to see marks left on the skin after the cups have been removed.
Will I bruise with massage cupping?
Athough marks may be left after cupping, neither TCM cupping nor massage cupping causes bruising. Bruises are the result of broken capillaries, usually from blunt force trauma. Cupping does neither of these things. Bruises also spread; a "cup kiss" will not, but will stay in a perfect circle. Cupping marks are far closer in nature to hickeys than bruises.
In fact, the marks that are commonly left after cupping treatments are a desired result. Massage cupping can be done without leaving this discoloration, but if there is a mark left after a session, it is an added bonus for the client. After the stagnant tissue, blood, and lymphatic fluid are released, better circulation is promoted and muscle function is restored.
What are some of the benefits of massage cupping?
How does cupping work with traditional massage therapies?
Vacuum therapy is not an irritant to the skin or body. It draws the inflammation out from deep in the tissues to be released. The skin can turn red with strong movements, indicating that circulation has been brought to the surface. Application of liniments, analgesics, plant hydrosols, and essential oil blends immediately after treatment will enable absorption of the product deep into the tissue.
Increased local blood supply to the muscles and skin brings oxygen and nutrients to the tissue and allows for cellular waste to be carried away via the lymphatic fluid. Conditions of chronic and acute pain can be relieved with minimal discomfort and tense muscles softened quickly and easily. Massage cupping is wonderfully effective for releasing restrictions in fascia and scar tissue, such as plantar fasciitis. The action on the nervous system can be very sedating and it is not uncommon for people to fall into a deep state of relaxation.
Massage cupping can be used in treating . . .
. . . patients preparing or recovering from surgery
. . . deep scar tissue, such as from C-sections or severe burns
. . . high blood pressure
. . . anxiety and insomnia
. . . fibromyalgia
. . . fatigue
. . . and oh so much more!
Athough marks may be left after cupping, neither TCM cupping nor massage cupping causes bruising. Bruises are the result of broken capillaries, usually from blunt force trauma. Cupping does neither of these things. Bruises also spread; a "cup kiss" will not, but will stay in a perfect circle. Cupping marks are far closer in nature to hickeys than bruises.
In fact, the marks that are commonly left after cupping treatments are a desired result. Massage cupping can be done without leaving this discoloration, but if there is a mark left after a session, it is an added bonus for the client. After the stagnant tissue, blood, and lymphatic fluid are released, better circulation is promoted and muscle function is restored.
What are some of the benefits of massage cupping?
- Lymphatic drainage
- Loosen connective tissue and adhesions
- Reduce scar tissue
- Pain relief
- Improve circulation and stimulate blood flow
- Decrease inflammation
- Increased range of motion
- Release tension in stagnant, hypertonic muscle tissue
- Lessen the appearance of cellulite
- Sedate the nervous system
How does cupping work with traditional massage therapies?
Vacuum therapy is not an irritant to the skin or body. It draws the inflammation out from deep in the tissues to be released. The skin can turn red with strong movements, indicating that circulation has been brought to the surface. Application of liniments, analgesics, plant hydrosols, and essential oil blends immediately after treatment will enable absorption of the product deep into the tissue.
Increased local blood supply to the muscles and skin brings oxygen and nutrients to the tissue and allows for cellular waste to be carried away via the lymphatic fluid. Conditions of chronic and acute pain can be relieved with minimal discomfort and tense muscles softened quickly and easily. Massage cupping is wonderfully effective for releasing restrictions in fascia and scar tissue, such as plantar fasciitis. The action on the nervous system can be very sedating and it is not uncommon for people to fall into a deep state of relaxation.
Massage cupping can be used in treating . . .
. . . patients preparing or recovering from surgery
. . . deep scar tissue, such as from C-sections or severe burns
. . . high blood pressure
. . . anxiety and insomnia
. . . fibromyalgia
. . . fatigue
. . . and oh so much more!