Cupping therapy (also referred to as myofascial decompression) is an ancient healing modality used by athletes to reduce pain and speed up healing time. Whether you are recovering from a sports injury, trying to prevent future injury, or want to relieve tension, cupping therapy at MindBody Med in Seattle, WA may be beneficial for you.
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping Therapy is practiced in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and goes back thousands of years. During treatment, a licensed therapist will place heated cups on your skin creating a vacuum effect. As your skin rises and reddens, the area is restored with blood flow. Toxins are flushed from the area and the natural healing process is activated.
What Are The Benefits?
Comparable to receiving a deep tissue massage, decompression can have numerous healing benefits for both the mind and body.
- Increase Relaxation
- Increase Blood Flow To Injured Or Tense Area
- Lower Blood Pressure
- Reduce Chronic Back Pain
- Reduce Neck Pain
- Fibromyalgia Pain
- Improve Digestion
- Increase Energy
- Improve Skin Disorders Including Acne & Eczema
- Release Tension & Stiffness
- Improve Range Of Motion
- Speed Up Recovery Time From An Injury
- Help Prevent Future Injury
What Are Those Red Circles & Do They Hurt?
After your cupping treatment, you will notice red circles on the areas treated. It will appear bruise-like, but it will not be painful like a bruise. That’s because the marks are not caused by broken capillaries from blunt injury or trauma like a normal bruise. The bruise-like appearance is actually stagnant blood, pathogens, and cellular debris that is brought to the surface of the skin.
Your lymphatic system will clear this away and the marks will typically go away in a few days.
Why Is Cupping Therapy So Popular Among Athletes?
Improved performance and quicker recovery time from injuries have made cupping a popular therapy among athletes.
Much of the magic happens in the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and runs in between muscles. When the fascia becomes stuck, it hinders movement and can cause pain. Decompression helps loosen and lubricate the fascia, improving flexibility and allowing better muscle function.
Is Cupping Just for Athletes?
You don’t have to be an athlete to experience the benefits. If you suffer from chronic pain, or stiffness, or are interested in trying alternative therapies for health, cupping therapy can be part of your wellness routine.
Find Freedom From Pain With Cupping Therapy In Seattle
Whether you are a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or just seeking some relief from chronic pain, cupping therapy may be right for you. At MindBody Med we offer numerous holistic and non-invasive treatments, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture. Our team of experts is focused on providing quicker recovery time from injuries, and reducing chronic pain.
To learn more about cupping therapy, contact MindBody Med in Seattle, WA today.
