Ever had that feeling of your muscles being so tight that it feels like your circulation has been cut off? With today's fast-paced lifestyle, it's no wonder our muscles get so tense and stressed. Cupping therapy is a great way to help relieve both acute and chronic pain, as well as increase blood circulation.

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is an ancient technique that was used to help relieve pain and increase blood circulation. Cupping therapy works by using negative pressure to draw out the build-up of fluid in the muscles (metabolic waste). This allows for fresh blood to saturate the area and results in increased muscle health and decreased pain. Cupping can be a standalone treatment or it can be incorporated into a regular massage.

Who Can Benefit from Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is great for people who are looking for increased blood circulation for tight muscles. It is especially beneficial for athletes who are looking for relief from the rigors of their daily lives. However, this type of treatment is not for everyone.

If you have suffered from cardiac arrest in the last six months, or have any kinds of tumors, hemorrhage, or tuberculosis, you should not receive cupping therapy. This is due to the reason that suction therapy can break open blood vessels, which can cause these conditions to worsen. Cupping is also not recommended for pregnant women or young children.

What Are the Different Types of Cupping?

Since cupping addresses different areas, there are different types of cupping. Here are the four main types:

• Dry Cupping: This is a suction-only cup that is placed on the skin.
• Wet Cupping: This cup uses a small amount of suction to draw blood into the cup.
• Running Cupping: This type of cupping involves moving the cup along the skin. A splash of oil is applied to help the cup glide smoothly.
• Flash Cupping: Just as the name suggests, this type of cupping involves quick suction and release which are repeatedly applied to the skin.

Depending on the results or your reason for cupping, your Big Creek Massotherapy therapist will decide which type of cupping is best for you.

What to Expect During a Cupping Therapy Session

Cupping therapy typically lasts for 30 minutes and can be added to any massage. Cupping therapy is not painful, but you may feel some discomfort when the cups are removed. There may also be some temporary bruising and redness on the skin. These side effects are normal and usually disappear within a few days.

Schedule a Session Today

Trying to explore new ways to decrease pain and improve circulation? Cupping therapy may be the solution for you. Schedule a session with one of our registered massage therapists at Big Creek Massotherapy today to see how cupping therapy can benefit you.