Cupping Therapy: The Benefits, Techniques, and What to Expect at Pure Physio!

Welcome to the third edition of the Pure Physio blog! It’s so exciting you want to take charge of your health and learn more about physical therapy and wellness with us.

After our last post about dry needling (read it here if you missed it!), you may be wondering about other modalities of care that we offer at the clinic here in Hazlet, NJ. Another popular - and effective - treatment method is cupping.

Cupping therapy has roots in an ancient, alternative medicine. The practice has gained popularity in modern physical therapy - and for good reason. At Pure Physio Physical Therapy, Dr. Harsh and the team utilize cupping therapy to help with myofascial decompression, promote blood flow, and speed up the healing process. 

But what exactly does that mean? What is cupping therapy, in the first place?

Read on to have all your questions answered. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the benefits of cupping therapy, the techniques used at Pure Physio, and what patients can expect during a cupping session.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is pretty much what it sounds like! The treatment involves placing special cups on the skin, then using a vacuum to create suction. This suction facilitates blood flow, reduces muscle tension, and promotes healing. 

The technique is old school. In fact, the earliest record of cupping therapy was in Egyptian medical textbooks published in 1550 BC! Today, cupping is still embraced by physical therapists all over the world. This treatment has been effective in treating various musculoskeletal conditions for thousands of years.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

If cupping has been used that long, it must have some pretty great effects, right? Here’s just a few benefits of cupping therapy.

1. Myofascial Decompression

   • By creating a vacuum effect, the cups lift the fascia (connective tissue surrounding muscles) which helps reduce tightness and pain. This decompression can improve range of motion and flexibility. That’s why cupping is such a valuable tool for athletes or any patient with chronic pain.

1. Promotes Blood Flow

   • The suction created by cupping therapy promotes blood flow to the treated area. Increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, accelerating the healing process. This can be particularly beneficial for patients recovering from injuries or surgeries.

1. Pain Relief

   • Cupping therapy can provide significant pain relief. By improving blood circulation and reducing muscle tension, cupping helps alleviate discomfort and promotes relaxation.

1. Detoxification

   • The suction effect of cupping also aids in the removal of toxins from the body. It helps stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for eliminating waste and toxins. This detoxifying effect can enhance overall well-being and vitality.

1. Reduction of Inflammation

   • Cupping therapy can also help reduce inflammation by promoting the release of inflammatory mediators and improving blood flow. This makes it a valuable treatment option for conditions like arthritis and tendonitis.

Cupping Techniques at Pure Physio

At Pure Physio, Dr. Harsh and the team employ two primary cupping techniques: static cupping and dynamic cupping.

1. Static Cupping

   • In static cupping, the cups are placed on specific points of the body and left in place for about 10 minutes. This technique is particularly effective for targeting specific areas of tightness or pain. Static cupping is often used to treat localized issues such as muscle knots or trigger points.

2. Dynamic Cupping

   • Dynamic cupping, on the other hand, involves moving the cups around the fascia while maintaining suction. This technique is used to treat larger areas and is more so used to improve overall blood flow and tissue mobility. Dynamic cupping can be used on areas such as the back, thighs, and shoulders to address widespread tension and stiffness.

Cupping explained by Dr. Harsh from Pure Physio!

In this video, Dr. Harsh breaks down some of the benefits of cupping, and the two techniques he uses.

What to Expect During a Cupping Session at Pure Physio

Like all appointments with our team, a typical cupping session at Pure Physio begins with a thorough assessment. This clinical assessment helps identify the specific areas that will benefit most from cupping therapy. Cupping is usually part of a bigger treatment plan that can include manual exercises, stretching, dry needling, and more.

Once the physical therapist has created your treatment plan, here’s how your cupping session will go.

1. Preparation

   • The skin is cleaned and a small amount of oil or lotion is applied to facilitate the movement of the cups, especially during dynamic cupping. The cups, which can be made of glass, silicone, or plastic, are then placed on the skin.

1. Suction Creation

   • The therapist creates suction within the cups using a manual pump. This suction lifts the skin and underlying tissues, creating the therapeutic effects of cupping.

1. Treatment Duration

   • For static cupping, the cups remain in place for about 10 minutes. During this time, patients may feel a gentle pulling sensation but should not experience pain. For dynamic cupping, the therapist glides the cups over the skin in a smooth, controlled manner.

1. Post-Treatment Care

   • After the cupping session, the cups are removed, and the skin may appear red or bruised. These marks are normal and typically fade within a few days. The physical therapist will then advise you on post-treatment care specific for your session and condition.

Here's an up close image of a cup in action!

Is Cupping Therapy Right for You?

With all this new knowledge, you may be wondering if cupping therapy could help you. 

Cupping therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including:

• Chronic pain

• Muscle tension and tightness

• Sports injuries

• Migraines and headaches

• Arthritis and joint pain

• Fibromyalgia

However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, skin infections, or certain types of cancer, should consult with a doctor or their primary care physician before undergoing cupping therapy.

Now you know!

Cupping therapy is a versatile and effective treatment option offered at Pure Physio Physical Therapy in Hazlet, NJ. Whether you are an athlete seeking to enhance performance, someone dealing with chronic pain, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, cupping therapy can provide significant benefits. 

The Pure Physio team is dedicated to delivering personalized care and helping you achieve optimal health through innovative and evidence-based practices. If you are interested in experiencing the benefits of cupping therapy, contact Pure Physio today to schedule a consultation.

By incorporating cupping therapy into your treatment plan, you can take a proactive step towards better health and improved quality of life.

Thanks for reading this week’s blog! Make sure you’re subscribed to our email list so you never miss a post.