Cupping

A yellow speech bubble on top of a black background.Cupping (also known as myofascial decompression) is a therapy designed to stimulate the flow of blood and Qi within the superficial muscle layers. This ancient therapy has been dated all the way back to Egyptian hieroglyphics and has proven to be an effective treatment for athletes and those undergoing physical therapy.

One way to think about cupping is that it is the inverse of massage. Rather than applying pressure to muscles, the suction uses pressure to pull skin, tissue and muscles upward.  It is commonly used for sore muscles, tension, neck pain and the common cold. According to modern medicine, cupping can also help with more chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia.

How is cupping administered?

In this therapy, I will place glass or plastic “cups” over specific areas on your body. A vacuum is created under the cup using heat or suction.  You usually will feel a tight sensation in the area of the cup. Often, this sensation is relaxing and soothing. Depending on your comfort and the severity of your problem, cups may be moved around or left in place.

They may remain on your body briefly or for longer amounts of time. Each treatment is unique to you on that particular day. Once the cups are taken off, your skin may look reddish purple.  This is actually a desirable result in order to stimulate the circulation and expel pathogens.

What conditions are treated by cupping therapy?

Cupping can help remove toxins from the body and stimulate the flow of fresh blood, lymph, and Qi to the affected area and throughout the body. It often works wonders for patients with the flu, colds, coughs, back and muscle pain, poor circulation, anxiety, red itchy skin conditions (though cups are not applied to inflamed areas), allergies, fevers, and aches.

Cupping is also hugely beneficial for chronic pain from sports or injuries.

Schedule an Appointment

We begin with a brief consultation, where we identify your specific needs and options. Cupping sessions last approximately 30 minutes, depending on the areas that you wish to have treated.