Myofascial Release and Cupping:
A Unique Treatment for Chronic Pain and Soft Tissue Structure Improvement
Our modern lifestyle combines physical exertion and constant movement, making health and well-being a key concern for today’s individuals.
This article will discuss a unique procedure known since ancient times in China — myofascial cupping massage. It effectively addresses chronic pain, helps improve well-being, and provides an energy boost.
What Is Myofascial Cupping, and How Is It Used?
Myofascial cupping therapy, also known as myofascial decompression, is a physiotherapy method based on the use of special glass, plastic, or silicone cups that create a vacuum suction on the skin’s surface. The method targets tissues, muscles, and fascia.
Cupping treatment involves placing cups on specific areas of the body. The created vacuum suctions the skin and soft tissue into the cup. Thus, the procedure helps smooth myofascial adhesions, increase blood flow, improve tissue elasticity, and reduce pain. There is also myofascial release for scar tissue, which is effective for scars on connective tissue.
The Most Common Types
of Myofascial Cupping Therapy
- Flash Cupping. Flexible silicone cups are used. This therapy involves quickly applying and removing cups to create negative pressure with minimal skin reaction.
- Static/Fixed/Dry Cupping. Cups are left on the skin for 30 seconds to 15 minutes, depending on the client's goals and the nature of the problem. There may also be a slight movement of the glass cup on the skin (Dynamic Cupping), which is the most common method.
- Wet Cupping (Hijama). This type of cupping treatment requires the involvement of qualified medical personnel and can only be performed in medical facilities. By making a small incision on the skin, cupping is applied to the affected area, creating a vacuum and enhancing blood flow.
- Massage (Glide) Cupping. Cups are moved across the skin, combining the benefits of traditional massage and fascia cupping. This method is often used to treat musculoskeletal disorders, improve tissue condition, blood, lymph, nerve flows and increase range of motion.
After a therapeutic cupping massage, you may feel like you have just received a deep tissue massage. Typically, during a massage, the therapist presses on the tissues, whereas therapeutic cups pull the tissues upward.
Indications for Cupping Massage
Myofascial cupping massage may be prescribed for:
- Treating cellulite.
- Eliminating fat deposits in the buttocks, thighs, and "saddlebags" (upper outer surface of the thighs).
- Comprehensive treatment of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar osteochondrosis.
- Alleviating conditions of peripheral nervous system disorders.
- Relieving pain and muscle-tonic syndromes.
Discover
the world of massage therapy
Get to know the unique massage method from Massage Bliss and Bodywork with personalized approach to each client.
Contraindications
to Myofascial Cupping Therapy
Myofascial release using specialized cupping, like any other massage therapy, has certain contraindications:
Note! Before applying this method, it is advisable to consult with a qualified specialist or massage therapist.
- Thrombosis and thrombophlebitis. Fascial therapy is not recommended for individuals with these conditions, as additional stimulation of blood circulation may worsen the overall condition.
- Acute skin conditions. Cupping procedures should not be performed in cases of eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis in the acute phase of the disease.
- Pregnancy. Applying myofascial cupping in the abdominal and lower back area may be undesirable during pregnancy, especially in the later stages.
- Malignant diseases. People with cancer, especially during chemotherapy or radiation therapy, are advised to avoid cupping for fascia release in the affected area.
- Cardiovascular diseases and circulatory disorders. The therapy may increase the load on the cardiovascular system. Therefore, individuals with serious heart and vascular pathologies are advised to consult with a doctor beforehand.
- Skin injuries. Cupping for myofascial release should not be applied to areas of the body with open wounds, abrasions, bruise, as well as acute skeletal-muscle trauma or fractures.
Key Benefits of Myofascial Cupping
Thanks to myofascial cupping, you experience an influx of energy and ease in every movement, getting rid of restrictive pain. However, these are not the only benefits that this procedure provides.
Myofascial release has numerous therapeutic effects on health and the body:
- Improved blood flow. Cupping creates a vacuum suction that improves blood flow in connective tissues and muscles.
- Stimulation of lymphatic flow. Myofascial cupping helps remove metabolic by-products (such as lactic acid) and stimulates the lymphatic drainage system. This strengthens the immune system, reduces swelling, and decreases the likelihood of its occurrence.
- Muscle relaxation. Myofascial release cupping provides moisture and blood flow to tissues, relieving tension and muscle spasms. All of this leads to pain relief and improved mobility.
- Working with fascia. Cupping for fascia is specifically aimed at working with this tissue, which envelops muscles and organs. The procedure helps improve the elasticity and flexibility of fascia.
- Prevention of tissue fibrosis (scarring). Cupping therapy helps reduce localized inflammation by supplying nutrients to muscles and connective tissues.
- Softening scar tissue. Myofascial release scar tissue facilitates its gentle stretching, thereby increasing the range of motion and joint flexibility.
- Improvement of overall well-being. Clients at “Massage Bliss and Bodywork” report improvement of over-all well-being, such as an energy boost and increased productivity, better strength performance, improved skin conditions and aesthetic benefits.
Our studio offers personalized myofascial cupping treatments under the “Kmit Method”, developed by Licensed Massage Therapist, studio owner – Svitlana Kmit.
At “Massage Bliss and Bodywork” , you will experience a revitalizing myofascial gliding cupping session that will free you from stiffness and pain, and, as a bonus, – will enhance your beauty by properly delivering oxygen and all needed nutrients to all structural levels in 100% natural way!
FAQ
Myofascial cupping, whether dry or wet, involves suction on the skin and the tissue that surrounds the muscles. This process helps reduce pain, improve blood flow to the area, improves lymph flow, and target a trigger point in the fascia to relax it. Unlike regular massage, it focuses on deep tissues and can additionally help address issues with scars, spasms, and muscle pains.
Use of cupping can be applied to any part of the body, including the back, neck, shoulders, legs, and buttocks. The therapy session is also effective for addressing problematic areas, such as the upper and lower back, where chronic pain, tension, and discomfort often occur.
After a massage treatment with cupping techniques, you should avoid intense workouts, alcohol consumption, and heavy meals. It’s not recommended to engage in activities, that may lead to increased blood pressure.
It’s advisable to start with a course of 6-10 procedures. This will provide a stable and long-lasting effect. However, the specific number of sessions may vary depending on your individual needs and the nature of the issues. Contact us at “Massage Bliss and Bodywork” for a detailed consultation.
