Cupping Therapy creates a suction on the underlying tissue, creating a decompressive pull (negative pressure) on the skin, fascia, and muscle. Cupping can help increase blood flow to the area, release adhesions and scar tissue, as well as improve tissue mobility. 

Many studies support the evidence for cupping in certain medical and health conditions. One such mechanism for health that has been hypothesized is the increase in microcirculation to the tissues which promotes granulation and angiogenesis (aka tissue and capillary repair). Another benefit of this increase in circulation is the elimination of trapped toxins, and the stimulation of the autonomic nervous system. Finally cupping can decrease pain though several mechanisms including the well studied Gate Control Theory where pain receptor transmission to the brain is decreased resulting in less pain.

These are just a few of the studied mechanisms and benefits of Cupping.

In terms of orthopedic (non-systemic) Health and Wellnes, we use cupping to help stimulate the normal healing mechanisms in our body, to reduce pain and muscle tension, and to improve tissue mobility. Cupping therapy can improve mobility by decreasing the viscosity of the hyaluronic acid found between our fascial layers (decreasing adhesive properties between fascial layers), and by mechanically breaking apart adhesions and scaring found on the skin and underlying tissues.

As a Physical Therapist, I have found cupping to be extremely useful on post surgical adhesions (from the femur to the breast tissue), back pain, shoulder tension, and all types of tendinitis. I recommend it as an addition to one’s athletic recovery or post scar routine.