About
Dry cupping is an ancient practice which has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine, and was also widely used until the twentieth century by the Greek civilisation.
During dry cupping therapy, cups are applied directly on the skin and then pumped manually in order to create a suction. After that, these cups are either left on the skin for several minutes, which is known as static cupping, or are moved along the skin to provide a similar effect as a deep tissue massage without leaving any circular marks on the skin. Although static cupping may leave circular marks on the skin due to the static vacuum application of the cups, they usually disappear within a day or two. In fact, these marks may not be as deep and noticeable on subsequent treatments.
The vacuum application of the cups during myofascial cupping release therapy results in an increased blood flow in the area, causing the skin, cells, and tissue to release tension. Neovascularisation (formation of a new blood vessel) takes place in response to the blood being drawn into the muscle tissue, which eventually increases the oxygen and nutrient levels in the localised area. The soft tissue experiences micro trauma & separation between various layers of the tissue as a result of the vacuum effect. Further, the body stimulates an inflammatory response (body’s natural healing process) to this micro trauma. The body at this stage releases chemicals like white blood cells, fibroblasts, and platelets to start the healing process. Lastly, the stretch in the soft tissue & fascia that occurs due to cupping results in a calming effect in the muscle and improves the range of motion.
Some of the benefits of Dry Cupping:
It increases blood circulation in the skin, muscle and fascia, which further improves oxygenation and nutrient content in the soft tissue.
It helps remove chemical irritants in the muscle and fascia, & also helps in stagnant blood removal.
It causes micro-trauma resulting in sterile inflammation and renewed healing in the body.
It causes a stretch reflex in the connective tissue and fascia, which improves joint mobility.
It helps in pain management by reducing muscular tension and nerve compression, while improving the range of movement.
It is one of the treatments which can be directly used over the spine without any side-effects on the body.
Cupping techniques which include active movement work wonders in stimulating the nervous system, and also aids in muscle memory re-education.The outcomes of dry cupping double when used in combination with other therapies and treatments. For instance, cupping release therapy works well alongside traditional sports & deep tissue massage, since the lifting effect of the cups synergistically works with the manual massage.
Whether you are looking for relief from chronic pain or just want to relax your body and mind, dry cupping can be a great option for you. Janine will be happy to discuss treatment options with you during consultation.