History of Myofascial Cupping
Therapeutic Cupping is an ancient form of health treatment that has been used globally for thousands of years. The Egyptians and Chinese practising Traditional Chinese Medicine popularized this tradition. In 18th century Europe, doctors practised cupping for clearing congestion caused by coughs, colds, pneumonia, toxicity ( at times using leeches under cups, blood letting), inflammation, swelling and as an aid to relieve pressure and pain. The “cups” used for treatment have been made from many types of materials in the past, clay, horn, bamboo, glass. I have chosen to use silicone cups for their contouring properties, safety and ease of use. (No fire necessary)
Myofascial Cupping Therapists
Application
Negative pressure… is created by pushing the air out of silicone cups and applying them to the fascia after applying a lubricant on the skin (creating a seal). This produces suction causing the cups to adhere to the skin and has a drawing effect. There are several different sizes of cups available for larger and smaller surface areas.
Small glass tubular cups with a bulb hand pump are used for a pump and release action to help clear congestion, pain and fascial tension around sinus, TMJ, neck tension and delicate areas where you would not leave a cup sitting on the site.
Suction draws fluids towards the surface of the skin, ” plumping up + re-hydrating tissue that has lost it’s elastine properties, becoming denser and tighter. Cupping reduces rigidity, stimulates the circulation and softens contracted tissues relieving muscular aches, pain and spasm. Useful for trigger points, tendinitis, tight, knotted muscles, fibrous areas of adhesions and scar tissue, often around old surgery sites and post traumatic injury creating spasming.
Gentle lifting and movement of the cups in various directions separates tissue layers, breaking down scar tissue and adhesions allowing more freedom of movement throughout the fascia, relieving tension and promoting flushing, draining, and healing. Drawing and gliding the cups along the surface of the tissue then stimulates circulation, relieving muscular tension, flushing unwanted toxins and fluids for elimination towards the nearest lymph glands. Helps to clear bruising more quickly. Abdominal cupping can be useful for those suffering with constipation and digestive disorders. Great for scar tissue work (burns and surgery sites) and post traumatic tension, pain and spasming.
A Great Preparation For Chiropractic Treatment And Adjustments.
Benefical for:
- Back + Neck pain / TMJ / Sinus congestion
- Scoliosis / Chronic Tension + Pain
- Frozen Shoulder + Muscular Tension
- Sports Injuries and Maintenance Work
- Low Back / Hip Conditions / Groin Pain
- Tight IT Band / Quadriceps / Hamstrings / Calves
- Lymphedema Post Surgery / Swollen legs + Ankles / Bruising
- Pregnant Women Experiencing Back Pain + Swelling
- Help Breakdown Cellulite (Thighs, Legs, Arms)
- Poor Circulation + Relief Of Pain
- Restless legs + General Stress
- Constipation + Digestive Disorders
*** The majority of people I treat do not go away with colouration marks on their bodies. For those on blood thinners, with blood disorders or very pale skin, a more dynamic method of cupping is used to avoid unsightly marks. For a first treatment I will always work cautiously to determine the sensitivity level of each client and their receptivity to the treatment.