By: Dr. Elizabeth Braley, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS
Cupping uses negative air pressure to creates a suction between a cup and your skin providing a therapeutic effect. The ancient practice dates back to 3,000 BC. It was popularized in the United States by Olympic Athletes like Michael Phelps and celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kim Kardashian and Justin Beiber. Cupping can be used on almost any musculoskeletal pain and is often helpful for scars as well.
The benefits of cupping may include; decreasing muscle spasm or tension, increasing lymph flow, increasing local blood circulation, stimulating the autonomic nervous system resulting in a reduction of pain and increasing a feeling of well being. This can be done with plastic, silicone or glass cups. The cups may stay still on the skin or the therapist can move them depending on the desired result.
Cupping can not be used over open wounds, sunburns, rashes or abrasions. It should not be used for people with heart disease, metastatic cancer, over an acute fracture or over a DVT. The most common negative effect is bruising, caution should be used in patients with bleeding conditions. I warn patients that if they have a big event (wedding, prom, swimsuit photo shoot), it may not be the time to try cupping.
In the clinic, cupping has helped my patients with chronic muscle spasms, painful and stubborn scars and hypersensitivities. I frequently try cupping because I've seen significant improvement with patients who were not improving with other treatments. You can discuss cupping with your therapist to determine if it is right for you. At The Green Room Physical Therapy we offer self pay cupping sessions for individuals who would like to experience the benefits of therapeutic cupping, but are not currently being seen for therapy through their insurance.
Want to book a future cupping session today? https://www.thegrpt.com/events-and-offers
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