Cupping is also known as "myofascial cupping therapy", "myofascial decompression (MFD)" and "cupping therapy". It is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that involves placing heated cups (typically made of bamboo, glass or earthenware) on the skin to create suction. This practice dates back over 2,000 years but has received recent attention due to its use by world-class athletes for injury relief.
Modern day cupping involves placing cups on dry skin or skin to which lotion has been applied and using a rubber pump to create a vacuum. The cups may be left in place for 5 to 10 minutes or glided across areas of tender/tight muscles (trigger points) to create a positive inflammatory response and gently lift tissue away from scar tissue/adhesions below in order to restore normal movement and relieve pain.
In a peer reviewed study1, researchers concluded that cupping could be effective in treating the pain and disability associated with chronic neck pain and chronic low-back pain in the short term.
Cupping is generally safe for healthy people when performed by one of our trained health professionals.
Some of the side effects like bruising and soreness are possible.
Ask your physical therapist how cupping might help you.
Cupping is a helpful alternative treatment for some. Please share your complete health history with your therapist and they will discuss the benefits and possible side effects of cupping to make sure it is right for you.
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