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Leanne Dickie Chester, RMT

What is Cupping?

Cupping is a traditional, time honored treatment.  It is favored by millions of people worldwide because it is safe, comfortable, and remarkably effective for many health disorders.  It is the use of suction rather than compression for bodywork ranging from myofascial release to lymphatic drainage and everything in between.  A cup is applied to the skin and pressure is reduced by suctioning air out; as this happens the skin and superficial muscle layer is drawn into the cup and held there.

Cupping rapidly facilitates rigid soft tissue release, loosens and lifts connective tissue, breaks up and drains stagnation while increasing blood and lymph flow to skin and muscles in ways not possible using compression.

When the cups move, negative pressure feels great.  The pulling action engages the parasympathetic nervous system, thus allowing a deep relaxation through the entire body.

 

What is Fascia?

Fascia is a specialized system of the body primarily made up of collagen that has an appearance similar to a spider's web.  Fascia is very densely woven; covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein, as well as our organs (heart, lungs, brain).  The fascial system is not a system of separate coverings; it is actually one continuous structure that exists from head to toe without interruption.

Benefits of Cupping

Cupping is beneficial for:

  • Poor circulation
  • Iliotibial band synsdrom
  • Low back pain
  • Chronic pain (myofascial pain, fibromyalgia)
  • Arthritis
  • Muscular aches
  • Neuralgia
  • Trigger points
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Migraines and Headaches
  • Scars and Adhesions
  • Athletic stress and Injury
  • Bursitis and Tendonitis
  • Scoliosis
  • Digestive and Respiratory conditions
  • Relaxation

 

Side Effects

Myofascial cupping is generally safe.  Following treatment the client may be left with "dehydration markings" on the skin, sometimes referred to as "cup kisses".  These generally subside within 2-4 days.  It is important to drink a lot of water following a cupping session to rehydrate the areas treated.