What is Cupping Therapy?

Who Can Benefit from Cupping Therapy?

Myofascial Decompression (MFD), or cupping therapy, is especially beneficial for individuals dealing with restricted range of motion due to muscle or tissue tightness. It’s also effective for those experiencing ongoing pain without clear structural damage, offering relief by improving tissue mobility and promoting better movement patterns. For post-injury recovery, MFD helps minimize excessive scar tissue formation, supporting a smoother healing process. Athletes and active individuals can also benefit by optimizing their performance and movement efficiency through enhanced flexibility and reduced muscle tension.

Cupping therapy is effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Muscle Strains & Chronic Muscle Tension: Helps reduce tightness and improve flexibility in overworked muscles.
• Tendonitis: Promotes blood flow to inflamed tendons for faster healing.
• Back & Neck Pain: Releases tension in the paraspinal muscles to reduce discomfort and stiffness.
• Shoulder Pain: Addresses restrictions from rotator cuff injuries, impingement syndromes, or frozen shoulder.
• Hamstring Injuries: Improves tissue mobility to enhance recovery from strains.
• Plantar Fasciitis: Reduces fascial tightness and pain in the foot.
• Overuse Injuries (e.g., Bursitis): Helps break down adhesions and relieve inflammation.
• Post-Surgical Adhesions: Assists in mobilizing scar tissue to restore normal movement.

How Does Cupping Therapy Work?

Cupping therapy works by helping your body respond better to pain and movement issues. It brings blood flow to tight, overworked muscles to help them relax and move more easily. It also loosens up thick or stiff tissue under the skin, making movement smoother. During a session, cupping sends new signals to your brain that can help reduce pain. It also helps your body become more aware of how you move, which can correct unhealthy movement habits over time.

What to Expect from a Cupping Therapy Session?

Assessment & Preparation
Your session will begin with an evaluation to identify areas of restricted range of motion (ROM) and pain. Based on this assessment, your provider will select the appropriate body area to address. You may be asked to change into suitable clothing to expose the treatment area, while ensuring your comfort and modesty are maintained.

Cupping Application
The therapist will prepare the skin by applying a lotion to allow smooth movement of the cups. Cups are then placed strategically over the targeted areas, and suction is applied and maintained for about 3 to 5 minutes. During this time, passive and active movements of the affected body part may be incorporated to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

Post-Treatment Care
Following the cupping session, neuromuscular re-education exercises may be introduced to help reinforce your new range of motion. Strengthening exercises for the opposing muscle groups may also be recommended to maintain muscular balance. It’s common for circular marks—ranging in color from pink to purple—to appear on the skin due to increased blood flow. These marks are temporary and generally fade within a few days.

What Does Myofascial Decompression Feel Like?
Myofascial Decompression (MFD) can feel slightly uncomfortable during treatment, but it should not be painful. If you experience pain, be sure to inform your provider so adjustments can be made. The sensation often feels like a pinching as the pressure is applied within the cup, and pressure levels can be adjusted based on your comfort. The intensity of the sensation may increase during stretching movements. Symptom relief—such as reduced pain, tension, stiffness, or radiating discomfort—may be felt immediately or develop over the next day or two.

Choose Bushnell Physical Therapy for Your Cupping Session