Massage cupping is essentially the inverse of the typical massage therapy. Instead of exerting pressure on the different points of the body for healing, massage cupping uses suction to to pull the skin, fascia and muscles upwards. Massage cupping has been known to be used over the centuries by many cultures and the oldest records of traditional Chinese medicine talk about using the therapy to cure a range of ailments. Massage cupping can be used very effectively in combination with other forms of therapeutic approaches.
How it Works
When the therapist exerts suction from a pump mechanism on the different muscles and fascial restrictions of the body certain changes are brought about inside the body.
Massage cupping could result in:
Promoting the flow of blood to the muscles and tissues, and removing stagnation
Supplying oxygen and nutrients to the cells
Softening the tightened muscles
Loosening of adhesions and knots
Lifting the connecting tissues
Opening the blockages of the lymphatic nodes and easing the flow of lymph
Releasing and draining of excess fluids and toxins like lactic acid from the tissues and cells
Drawing inflammation from the deeper tissues to the surface of the skin so they can heal
Stimulating and later, calming the peripheral nervous system
Eliminating chronic congestion
Massage cupping has been used as a treatment for many symptoms such as stiff muscles, stress, migraines, fatigue, along with back, neck, shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, elbow and ankle pains that stem from muscle and fascia dysfunction. Muscles that have been injured, undergone trauma or exertion, accumulate lactic acid and other toxins. Massage cupping can be used to help drain these toxins so the muscles can heal.