Cupping therapy is a non-invasive and low-risk method that helps relax muscles and address various bodily aches. Some refer to it as an “inverted” massage as cups use pressure to pull the skin and other tissues upward rather than applying pressure on the targeted area.
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, we offer dry cupping treatments during which our experienced staff members use silicone cups on your skin. Making sure you see a trained provider is important when you consider cupping. Specific skills and thorough training ensure that your treatment is safe and effective.
What Conditions Can Cupping Therapy Treat?
One of the benefits of cupping therapy is its versatility. Its primary purposes are to stimulate cell repair and increase blood flow and oxygen levels in muscles and other tissues in your body. Those natural processes can then actively support your musculoskeletal structure and other bodily functions.
At ProFysio Physical Therapy, we can use cupping therapy to address a broad range of health issues such as:
- Joint stiffness
- Muscle tightness
- Myofascial pain
- Sports injuries
- Tendonitis and impingement
We can also use cupping as a pain relief method because it promotes increased muscular output and information sharing with your brain. Reducing and managing your pain can help you make progress in your physical therapy program such as improving your mobility and range of motion.
Cupping therapy can also provide effective and lasting pain relief for the following body areas:
- Back
- Neck
- Knees
- Ankles
- Feet
- Shoulders
- Elbows
Your doctor can recommend cupping as a standalone treatment or as part of a comprehensive plan that involves multiple types of therapy.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is safe for most individuals, which makes it convenient and accessible to treat a variety of health concerns at any age. At ProFysio Physical Therapy, we always begin with an initial consultation no matter which medical service you see us for. Our provider carefully reviews your health history and current symptoms before performing a physical examination. Not only does it help us create a customized treatment plan, but this approach ensures that any treatment we recommend is safe for you.
We may recommend an alternative to cupping therapy in the following cases:
- Pregnancy
- Certain skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
- Blood-thinning medications
- Bleeding disorders
What Can I Expect During a Cupping Session?
During your treatment, your provider uses a sanitized and warmed cup on a specific area of your body to suck the skin and the underlying muscles and other tissues. This suction process can be stationary and/or sliding depending on whether your therapist leaves the cups in their original position or not. You can expect the treatment to last up to 15 minutes depending on the targeted area.
When the professional removes the cup, you can feel your skin stretch as your blood flow increases. Cupping therapy is typically not painful and can provide a deep sense of relaxation, which benefits both your physical and mental health.
Does Cupping Therapy Have Any Side Effects?
Cupping may result in redness and mild soreness in the treated area, although usually less than what you experience after a deep tissue massage. Another possible side effect is bruising for up to a week.
We usually recommend you avoid strenuous physical activity and extreme heat right after your session. Staying hydrated and eating whole foods are important. You should avoid swimming or taking a shower for two to three hours after your appointment.
How Often Do I Need Cupping Treatments?
Most people experience a positive change right after a treatment session. How many appointments you need and at which frequency you should schedule them is unique to your needs and goals. We may recommend you come two to three times a week over a few weeks, and we can re-evaluate depending on your results. If we use cupping therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, we may address multiple components of it during a single session or separate ones.
ProFysio Physical Therapy offers cupping therapy as part of our services in Monmouth and Middlesex Counties. Contact us today at (732) 812-5200 to schedule an appointment!