Massage Therapy

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping has been developed over time from its original use by various First Nations people from all over the world. They used objects such as hollowed out animal horns as cups to drain the toxins out of snakebites and skin lesions. Over time the use of animal horns had evolved into bamboo cups, which were eventually replaced by what we use today, glass and plastic moulded cups.

The Chinese refined the cups to accommodate the many therapeutic applications for use during surgery to help divert blood flow from the site of wounds. Other ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Romans and early Greeks embraced the therapeutic value of cupping. The technique eventually spread throughout Europe and later to the Americas. In today's world cupping therapy has developed into a separate therapy under the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) umbrella, with healers trained specifically in this technique.

How Does It Work?

I use one type of cup which is the Korean vacuum cups as the pressure of the cups can be controlled for better blood flow.

These cups come in all sizes, which are pressurised via the vacuum hand pump. The friction that is generated between the cup and the skin creates a small but significant amount of heat and suction. Once the cups are applied they are left on the area for up to 2 - 4 minutes, depending on each client.

This then allows the toxins to be drawn from the muscle and tissue, reddening the skin which is a clear sign that blood flow has increased. The cupping marks that are sometimes produced during the therapy are temporary and can last up to a week. They look like round circular bruises and it is part of the cupping process. However everybody's skin is unique and some people many not be left with circular marks. **Please note during cupping I do not leave the room and I watch every cup carefully**.

What To Expect?

Cupping therapy through suction and negative pressure may assist with releasing very rigid/tight soft tissue, draining excess fluids and toxins, it loosens adhesions, lifts connective tissue, breaks up and disperses cellulite. It may assist blood flow in areas in the body that are stagnant within the skin and tissues in the muscles.

Who Can Experience Cupping Therapy?

However with young adults under 18yrs old an adult needs to be present at all times. Is cupping painful? In most cases cupping feels extremely pleasant. Cupping is generally not painful, however some people who suffer from fibromyalgia or other chronic muscular disorders may feel minimal discomfort and should mention this to me as this may not be the suitable modality. Muscle tension and tenderness often continues to improve for many hours after the session is completed.

Please DO NOT undergo this therapy if you have or had:

• recent surgery, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis and other vascular irregularities;

• open wounds, abrasions, ulcers, sunburns, burns or recent skin trauma;

• are pregnant;

• Haemophilic or predisposed to blood haemorrhages;

• severe cognitive impairment (i.e.: dementia);

• skin sensation (i.e.: diabetic patients);

• heart conditions;

• long fasting periods;

• 24hrs after a sports injury and;

• 24hrs after a drinking binge (NO drinking).