Therapeutic Cupping

Healing Origins…

Cupping is an ancient healing modality dating back thousands of years. The exact origin is debatable, however, it has been documented in early Egyptian and Chinese cultures. Early historical accounts describe the cupping healer placing a hollowed out animal horn or a section of bamboo on the patient’s skin and drawing air out with the mouth to create a vacuum. This type of suction therapy allowed the cupping healer to increase blood flow and oxygen rich nutrients to the area being treated. We still use cupping techniques today in modern cupping therapy, but the materials are different. No need to go out and find an animal horn to hollow out! Massage cups are silicone, glass or plastic.

Baguanfa cups…

are soft to medium hardness silicone. They are compressed and then set on the skin surface to create suction. These cups can be left stationery, or they can be used with oil to “run” or “glide” on the skin while in suction.

Vacuum cups…

are hardened clear plastic bells with a valve at the top. Once placed on the surface of the skin, a manual suction pump attaches to the valve and removes the air from the cup, drawing the skin and fascia into the cup. They can also be used with oil for “running” cupping.

Both Baguanfa and vacuum cups are brilliant for use with increasing active and passive range of motion and neuromuscular movement techniques.

Facial cups…

are small glass bells with a rubber bulb. The rubber bulb is compressed, the cup placed on the face, and the bulb is released to create the suction. This compression and release motion is done very quickly when working on the delicate skin of the face and neck areas. Facial cupping may assist with increased blood circulation, relief of muscle tension, and support healthy collagen production.

Examples of Conditions Cupping May Help…

• Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
• Cellulite
• Fibromyalgia
• Iliotibial Band Dysfunction
• Low back pain
• Neuromuscular dysfunction
• Orthopedic conditions
• Scar tissue
• Sciatica
• TMJD
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)
• Traumatic injury

Benefits…

– Clears stagnation

– Drains and moves fluids

– Relieves inflammation

– Nervous system sedation

– Relieves congestion

– Stretches muscle and connective tissue

– Loosens adhesions in fascial layers

– Nourishing blood supply to the skin