Cupping
Cupping Therapy stems back to ancient Chinese practice and is an alternative form of medicine. Cupping involves placing various sized cups on areas of pain or dysfunction and creating local suction at these points for a short period of time.
Multiple theories exist as to how cupping is beneficial and include that it provides some mild detoxification of the area by removing toxins, improves blood circulation, and/or that it provides some traction stimulus to trigger points to decrease pain. Cupping can be performed separately or in conjunction with other types of manual techniques to improve tissue quality, decrease pain, and improve function.
Cupping can be useful for patients who have soft tissue deficits and scar adhesions following surgery, chronic stiffness or tightness in muscles, or muscle soreness following exercise.
All of our therapists are knowledgeable in cupping techniques, indications for use, and contraindications for cupping. A thorough evaluation with the physical therapist and a personal discussion on your medical history and level of comfort are necessary before determining if cupping is right for you!