Massage Cupping Therapy

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​​Cupping is not exclusive to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Variations of this treatment were used by ancient Egyptians, North American Indians, early Greeks, Middle Eastern cultures and in other Asian and European countries. In fact, the Ebers Papyrus, written in 1550 BC, is one of the oldest medical textbooks in the Western world and it describes the Egyptians' use of cupping, while mentioning similar practices employed by Saharan peoples. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates (400 BC - the man whom many consider to be the "Father of Modern Medicine) used cupping for internal disease and structural problems, and recommended it in his guide to clinical treatment. The method was also highly recommended by Muhammad, and hence well-practiced by Muslim scientists who elaborated and developed the method further. Consequently, this method in its multiple forms spread into medicine through these many early civilizations. 

Massage Cupping Therapy is very different from the more common Traditional Chinese Cupping. I utilize silicone dry cupping in my bodywork, which does not require heat nor does it involve breaking the skin. The vacuum created by the suction effect of the cups has several benefits; it increases blood and lymphatic circulation systemically and locally, releases rigid soft tissues, drains excess fluids and toxins, loosens adhesions, lifts fascia and connective tissue, draws out “stagnation” including pathogenic factors and toxins from the tissues and releases a myriad of pain causing factors. The pulling action also engages the parasympathetic nervous system which allows deep relaxation to occur throughout the body. The resulting myofascial release is direct, and correct application addresses a myriad of debilitating and stubborn conditions.  When I incorporate cupping into my bodywork I am leveraging the benefits of creating a localized vacuum (negative pressure) with the benefits from manual tissue manipulation (positive pressure), joint manipulation and relaxation work.

So what does it feel like? You will feel a tight sensation in the area of the cup. Often, this sensation is relaxing and soothing. Depending on your comfort level and my assessment of the problem, the cups may be moved around a troublesome area or they may be left alone to remain in place. They may remain on your body briefly or for longer periods of time. Each treatment is unique to you on that particular day. 

Skin markings are common after the cups are removed, varying from simple red rings that disappear relatively quickly, to causing the skin to temporarily turn red, blue or purple (bruising or petechia), especially if there is an injury or energetic blockage under the area that was cupped. These skin discolorations can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, but they are rarely painful.