The Benefits of Cupping Therapy
These days it’s hard to watch the Olympics, a professional basketball game or even scroll through social media without noticing those circular cupping marks on many of the athletes’ backs, shoulders and legs. Michael Phelps, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Steven Adams and Conor McGregor are just a few athletes known for donning these infamous marks.
But what’s the deal with cupping anyway? What are its benefits? Are the marks “bruises?” And how can it help not just professional athletes—but also gym-goers, runners and your typical office-worker?
What is cupping?
Cupping is a type of bodywork therapy that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction creates negative pressure, which pulls, lifts and decompresses muscles and connective tissue. This process promotes blood flow to compromised areas, enhances circulation and helps to speed up the body’s own healing processes.
How does it feel?
Cupping is relaxing and generally not painful. The sensation is akin to a slight pulling of the skin as the cup is moved in a rolling, circular or stationary fashion. Redness or a feeling of warmth is usually experienced after the release of the cup due to an increase of blood flow to the area.
Are the marks bruises?
No. Bruises are caused by blunt injury or trauma. They are the blood from broken capillaries trapped under the skin. Unlike bruises, cupping marks are stagnant blood, cellular debris or pathogens that are brought to the surface for the lymphatic system to clear away. Generally, cupping marks will last from about a day up to a week, depending on the stagnation of the area. However, it is possible to use a technique called dynamic cupping (constantly moving the cups around), which leaves no marks behind.
What are the benefits?
1. Treats stubborn knots or trigger points
Releases scar tissue and fascial adhesions
Reduces pain
Improves circulation, blood and lymph circulation
Promotes mobility and range of motion
Releases toxins
Achieves faster results (it is said that 5 minutes of cupping is the same as 30 minutes of deep-tissue massage)
If you’re interested in experiencing the many benefits of cupping therapy, simply add it on to any massage service with one of our skilled massage therapists. Book here https://therakneads.com/massage-eldersburg-sykesville-maryland or give us a call at 410-549-7711 with any questions.