You may have heard of the Cupping Method, and it’s becoming popular once again. Well, it’s not really a new thing since it’s an ancient form of alternative medicine or therapy that originated in China, it was also used in ancient Middle Eastern and Egyptian cultures. . It involves placing cups on the skin that creates suction. Too painful for you to imagine? Well, not exactly. It actually facilitates healing with blood flow.
However, a physical therapist would use a rubber pump to create a vacuum. The vacuum causes the skin to rise and the blood vessels to expand. There are times that the PT sill use silicone cups to add a massage effect.
Physical therapists opt to use cupping at times as a technique of tissue distraction, this also enhances the release of the interfaces between the fascia, skin, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Cupping therapy also is known to relax muscles, release trigger points, and improve local circulation.
Different Types of Cupping includes
Dry cupping - a suction-only method
Wet cupping - uses both suction and what we call controlled medicinal bleeding
This is only done by your licensed Physical Therapist. They will be the ones to determine which is to be used for each patient. Aside from that, cupping is not done if you have wounds, infection, active inflammation, and burns. It will create bruises that will heal and disappear in no time.
Myofascial Decompression vs. Traditional Cupping
Traditional Cupping has been around for so many years. This is a type of wet cupping. This is mostly done by massage therapists and acupuncturists, and mostly the goal is to promote healing by changing the energy systems.
Myofascial Decompression (MFD) however is different. It has a more medical approach since it adds skillful movement to create physiological changes. This therapy is a dry cupping type. The placement of the cups is based on muscular anatomy. When the cups are in place, the treatment begins and the active movements of the joints help in improving the movement patterns and make lasting changes on the tissue.
What are the benefits of cupping and MFD?
Pain reduction
Speeds up recovery times
Increases blood flow
Improves scar mobility
Decreases scar mobility
Improves movement quality
Releases connective tissue adhesions
Who benefits the most in using Cupping and MFD?
Patients with muscle and movement imbalances
Those suffering from pain and with trigger points
With orthopedic conditions
Athletes (sports medicine)
Tendinopathy
Patients who are post-surgical
Contractures
People with postural issues
Other Benefits of Cupping
Cupping can also boost your skin health, help with respiratory issues, and improve digestion. This technique has been used to speed up recovery from the flu and common colds by improving immunity. It also reduces symptoms from disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Many athletes actually use cupping therapy as one of their go-to treatments.
So if you think you fit the category to have this treatment, you can always inquire and know more about it. Remember, always consult with licensed Physical Therapists to get a safer and effective treatment.
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