Myofascial Cupping is a course that many of us therapists have decided to train in. Today, we’re going to be having a brief look into its history and effects. 

Where Did Myofascial Cupping Come From? 

Myofascial Cupping has been used for thousands of years. Cupping is achieved by using negative pressure or sucking in order to remove unwanted substances from the body, ranging from pain and sickness to evil and bad magic. It was first known to have been used in ancient Egypt shown on hieroglyphics using cups alongside knives hooks and forceps. 
 
There have always been 2 methods of cupping through history, dry cupping, where the cup is suctioned directly on to the skin, and wet cupping, where the skin is physically cut in order to draw out unwanted substances. 
 
Cupping has long been used in other cultures around the world throughout history, such as in Islamic practice and Chinese medicine for which it is most often associated. In Europe, Myofascial Cupping is commonly known for its use on athletes throughout the sporting world. 
 
Other modern adaptations of cupping include cellulite treatments, breast pumps, penis pumps, and venom extraction kits. 

Myofascial Cupping FAQ’S 

How Does Myofascial Cupping Feel? 

Mostly described as a pinching feeling or skin pulling, also described as invigorating, tingling, warming and tickly. It should not really hurt though this will depend on the tolerance of the person being cupped and how firmly the cups are applied. 

What Are the Marks and How Long Do They Last? 

This is old or stagnant blood being brought out and released, however, bruises can occur when the cups are applied too forcefully. They can last up to 4 weeks, but a few days to a week is most common. 

How Long Should They Be On? 

This varies from person to person depending on their experience with cupping, hydration and level of activity. In general, it’s recommended that they are used for no longer than 10 minutes. This includes movement and stretching. 

How Often Can Myofascial Cupping Be Done? 

Think of it in terms of very similar to regular massage, it is great for maintenance, although we wouldn’t recommend you had it done more than once a week. 

Will Myofascial Cupping Fix the Problem? 

This depends on the person and the lifestyle they lead. Sometimes a person can massively affect the rate in which they heal by improving their lifestyle, for example something as simple as staying well hydrated. 

Is it Proven to Work? 

The fact that cupping has been around for thousands of years and continues to gain popularity is a reflection on how well this technique works. More and more athletes and non-athletes are taking to this method to solve long standing issues with good results. 

Who is Myofascial Cupping Suitable For? 

All prior contraindications apply, no cancer patients, same restrictions with pregnancies etc. 

What Benefits Does Myofascial Cupping Have? 

• Encouraging circulation 
• Alleviating adhesions through lifting and separating tissue 
• Clearing stagnation that could lead to dysfunction and disease. 
• Rehydrate and manipulate fascia, by forcing hydration to pass through muscular structures. 
• Can cause microtraumas, this sounds wrong and counterproductive, but it can encourage inflammation for restrictions to clear and rebuild healthy tissue. 
• Can alleviate excessive pressure on sensory organs increasing pain reduction. When tissue is restricted, it can cause the nerve endings to be overactive, this encourages them to relax and release tension. 
 
We hope you found our brief insight into Myofascial Cupping interesting and understand more about why this seemingly new phenomenon is fast becoming one of the most popular methods for treating muscle aches, pains and dysfunctions. 
 
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