As we age, our body start to degenerate at an increased rate. This breakdown includes loss of muscle, increased numbers of adhesions in fascia and muscle and decrease in blood flow. Through progressive inactivity the blood supply to tissues decreases and the fascia gets knotted and scarred, which further limits movement. The use of dry cupping, like with manual massage therapy, can aid these effects by increasing blood supply to the muscle, fascia and skin and increasing pliability of soft tissue.

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How does Cupping Work?

Dry Cupping pulls blood into an area. The tissue becomes saturated with fresh blood while the vacuum pulls stagnant blood out of the area. This is demonstrated by the hickey like appearance that is typically left behind. As new blood is forced into the tissues around the cups, the body will begin to develop new blood vessels called neovascularisation (new blood vessel formation). As the new vessels form, they will have the capability to feed the tissues with nutrient and oxygen.

 

When the vacuum occurs, it causes separation of the different layers of tissue which can cause micro trauma and tearing. This microtrauma is registered by the body and sterile inflammation is initiated. From this, the body releases white blood cells, platelets, fibroblasts and other chemicals to promote healing.

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Does it hurt?
The marks left are not the same as impact bruises. These rarely hurt.

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How long will the marks last?
Anything from a few hours to 10 days. More than that is rare but can happen from time to time.

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Benefits:
• Increase in circulation to the muscle, fascia and skin, which increases oxygenation and nutrient levels within the soft tissue.
• Increases the removal of chemical irritants within muscle and fascia and the removal of stagnant blood.
• Increases the removal of oedema after injury.
• Cause micro trauma which leads to sterile inflammation and a renewed healing process.

• Produces a stretch reflex in fascia and connective tissue, which increases mobility at the joint.
• Cupping techniques that include active movement stimulate the nervous system and aid in re-educating muscle memory and proprioception.
• Aids in the management of pain, as cupping therapy reduces muscular tension, nerve compression and irritation through the build-up of chemical irritants, whilst increasing range of movement.
• Reduces appearance cellulite and scars.
•Works well in conjunction with other therapy such as sports and remedial massage, joint mobilisations, Dry Needling and more.