Cupping is an ancient alternative therapy derived from Egyptian, Chinese and Middle Eastern cultures, and in recent years has become popular with athletes and sports people. The therapist uses special cups made from silicone, glass, earthenware or plastic, which encourage blood and lymph flow to promote the healing of various medical ailments.
In our clinic we practice with glass cups. These are placed on the skin and a vacuum is created using a pump attached to the top of the cup. This in turn applies suction to the treated area causing skin and muscle to rise and redden as the blood vessels expand.
The cups can be left in situ for up to three minutes or moved around the skin as an alternative to massage. It is used for pain relief, relaxation and general well being. At times it may leave purple round shaped bruises similar to those visible on Olympian Michael Phelp`s back and shoulders during the 2016 Olympics.
Cupping is primarily used for the recovery of athletes muscles and is an alternative to the more common massage therapy.