Cupping massage is a type of massage that uses cups to create suction on the skin. This suction can help to increase blood flow, release muscle tension, and relieve pain. Cupping massage has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and is now gaining popularity in the Western world.
There are many benefits of cupping massage, including pain relief. That is the primary reason why it is used in my massage practice. Cupping massage can help to release “knots” and trigger points in the muscles, which can lead to pain relief. The increased blood flow from cupping can also help to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Many people think that cupping hurts, but it doesn’t. The suction from the cups feels like a deeper pressure massage. Instead of your muscles being pushed on, the muscles and fascia are being pulled up leading to a different type of sensation.
Sometimes I actually massage with silicone cups along the shoulders and back. This is called gliding cupping massage. The silicone cups are able to slide along the skin while maintaining suction. It’s a very relaxing and effective massage cupping technique.
Other times, I place a cup on an area for 15 minutes. This is called stationary cupping massage. The cup will create a vacuum seal with your skin and the pressure inside the cup will help to loosen the facia, bring more blood flow to the area, and ease pain.
Cupping massage can help with chronic issues like:
- Frozen Shoulder
- Carpal Tunnel
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Migraines
- General neck pain
- Sciatica and low back pain
When the massage cups are stationary like this, red marks can often occur. Remember the marks you’ve seen on Michael Phelps? These cupping marks are not bruises. The red color is from the increased blood flow to the area and it will go away in a few days. I know it looks painful, but it isn’t.
If you are looking for pain relief, cupping massage may be a good option for you. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to book an appointment.
Ready to book your appointment now? You can do so through this link.