Although it has its roots in ancient Chinese medicine, massage cupping is experiencing a resurgence of popularity in today's health-conscious society. Cupping uses suction and negative pressure to drain excess fluids and toxins, loosen adhesions, lift connective tissue, and bring blood flow to stagnant skin and muscles. This technique intensifies the therapeutic effects of massage and other body treatments.
Cupping is accomplished by depressurizing glass or bamboo cups of various sizes. The therapist lights an alcohol-soaked cotton ball and places the flame briefly inside the cup; the cup is then quickly placed on the client's body. The flame removes the air from the cup, creating a vacuum. This vacuum creates negative pressure on the skin and tissue, pulling it slightly into the cup. This action creates a sensation of light pressure on the skin and has a sedating effect on the nervous system, very similar to traditional massage. A stronger suction will mimic the rolling action of a deep tissue massage. The movement may be long and draining or circular and stimulating for stubborn knots and areas of rigid tissue. The skin will turn very red with stronger cupping, indicating that the circulation has been brought to the surface. This increased local blood supply will bring nourishment to the muscles and skin and allow for toxins to be carried away via the circulatory system. The application of analgesics and essential oil blends immediately following will facilitate the absorption of the product deep into the tissue.
The sensation of massage cupping is pleasant and unique. Most clients describe a deep warmth and a tingling sensation long after the treatment has ended. Massage cupping is recommended for all conditions for which a patient might seek massage therapy (muscle tension, headaches, neuralgia, high blood pressure, anxiety, and fatigue) and is especially effective for tightness of the iliotibial (IT) band and chronic pain, tightness, and spasm of the middle to lower back. I have found this technique particularly useful for clients who are unable to withstand the discomfort sometimes associated with deep tissue massage, thereby allowing them to reap the same benefits.
Massage cupping is yet another natural and simple technique that offers many benefits. It has been used by European, Middle Eastern, and Asian cultures for thousands of years as an effective form of treatment. Whether used alone or in combination with other therapies, massage cupping offers productive and noticeable results for my clients.
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