Cupping therapy (or suction cup therapy) is an ancient form of alternative medicine that has been used for centuries to help relieve pain and treat conditions. This blog post will explore what cupping therapy is, how it works, and the benefits it can provide. We’ll discuss the application process to give you an idea of what to expect.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy involves placing round cups on the skin to create suction. With some cups, a massage therapist will heat up each cup before placing it on the skin. As it cools, it creates a vacuum that draws fluid to the area.
At Vinings Massage and Wellness we use silicone cups that aren’t heated up. When pressed on the skin, they create suction. A typical session includes using 3-5 cups.
Once the silicone cups are attached, the massage therapist gently glides them along the skin. This can help to:
- Loosen muscles
- Improve blood flow
- Stimulate the lymphatic and circulatory systems
- Create space for fresh and revitalized blood in stagnant areas of the body
What Is Cupping Therapy Used to Treat?
Cupping therapy is most commonly used to manage conditions like arthritis, back pain, headaches, and migraines. It can relieve joint stiffness in a different way than traditional massage therapy.
The benefits of cupping therapy can include:
- Pain relief
- Reduced stress
- Improved circulation
- Increased blood flow
- Reduced inflammation
- Diminished congestion
- Decreased toxins in the body
What Should I Expect Before and After a Cupping Therapy Session?
Cupping therapy is generally safe and there are usually no side effects. However, it is important to consult with a licensed practitioner before beginning any cupping therapy regimen.
After a session, the skin may look red or bruised but this is normal. The marks are not permanent and will typically fade within a few days.
You should also drink plenty of water after cupping in order to help your lymphatic system flush out any waste. Staying hydrated will help your body circulate blood to the affected areas after the session.
Cupping therapy has a long history of being used to treat many ailments. It’s known to relieve pain, improve circulation, and provide many benefits to people. If you are searching for an alternative therapy that could help you with any of the conditions listed above, cupping therapy may be the answer! Schedule an appointment with Vinings Massage & Wellness today to get started.