Michael Phelps, 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist had help by getting cupping done before his races. People from all backgrounds and walks of life have been using this technique for thousands of years to detoxify their bodies, break up tight fascia, relieve muscle pain, and encourage blood flow to fatigued tight muscles. Cupping is also deeply relaxing.
When cups are applied to the skin and held in place by suction you will definitely feel a pulling sensation that later feels like deep tissue massage. Suction draws up skin and increases your circulation. Cups are either left in place or moved slowly back and forth along your skin. You may develop red raised areas which may be later followed with purple dots that later fade to bruises. Cupped areas can be elevated and quite “bumpy” which usually lessens with each treatment as more healing has taken place. While cupping may leave you with a bruise for up to a week, it should never be painful. Facial cupping is far less intense as we are looking only for a rosiness to return to your cheeks.
CUPPING CAN RELIEVE MANY CONDITIONS
- acute or chronic myofascial tension and pain
- back pain
- hip pain
- shoulder pain
- menstrual cramps
- edema due to impaired lymphatic drainage
- toxin build-up in the skin and muscles
- stress and anxiety
- infertility due to Cold in both men and women
- low libido
- pale, tired facial complexion
- numbness or tingling of limbs
- stroke recovery
- treatment of early common cold or asthma
- enhance blood flow to pale, lifeless skin
YOU SHOULD NOT GET CUPPING IF YOU HAVE
- a history of bruising or a bleeding disorder
- been taking blood thinners such as warfarin, clopidogrel, or xarelto
- thin skin (as often seen in prednisone use)
- are pregnant (abdomen, low back)
- any skin condition that would be aggravated by suction