Cupping
Myofascial Cupping
is a soft tissue therapy that involves the application of decompressed cups on the skin, creating a negative pressure / vacuum effect that lifts up underlying connective tissues such as fascia, fibers, cells, superficial blood vessels and fluid, close to the surface of the skin.
Most manual techniques are based on compression of the muscles and other tissues, such as deep tissues techniques, soft tissue mobilisation and joint mobilisation techniques, whereas myofascial cupping works by creating suction of the cup to produce negative pressure or tensile stress that causes dilatation and capillary rupture; this is what creates the reddish-coloured circles called ecchymosis or bruising, and the lasting effect of this is what is typically seen to be therapeutically beneficial. Cupping works by stimulating inhibitory neural pathways, altering pain thresholds, promoting blood circulation, relieving swelling and increasing tissue temperature.
Sal uses 4 different types of cupping techniques:
Glass Fire Cupping
for a combined cupping and Gha Sha effect, promoting decompression, blood flow and nerve stimulation through sliding the cups in the affected area. You can use this technique with other cups but Sal finds the glass better for client comfort
Pump Suction Cupping
Using firm plastic suction cups without oil or wax to decompress jammed up tissue, to pull and twist, manipulating the fascia and surrounding connective tissue in smaller spaces
Functional Release Cupping
Functional Release Cupping is Sal’s favourite for getting great results, but again it depends on the individual.
The suction cups are placed strategically, creating the desired negative pressure. The client is then asked to move in opposition to the function of that muscle group.
This provides a stretch and release technique of the fascia planes and interstitial spaces under the skin layers. Also prompting an additional nervous system and muscle response of lengthening. It is a great alternative to painful muscle treatment.
This method is very successful to release pain where other treatment modalities were too intense for the client.
Silicone Cupping
Squeeze silicone cups have a nice therapeutic release after treatment to reduce inflammation and move debris out of the area. Sal also likes to use these cups on the face. See the shop if you’re keen to purchase your own.