Cupping therapy is a form of treatment in which a local suction is created on the skin. It has been traditionally used, by providers of alternative medicine, to invigorate the blood and to ‘pull’ metabolic waste (such as lactic acid) from the muscles. Cupping has been used for thousands of years in Asia and recently received attention in the media due to the use of cupping by the American Olympic swimming team. Michael Phelps, a competitive swimmer and the most decorated Olympian of all time, with a total of 28 medals, reported using cupping to reduce soreness and to speed the healing of muscles.
Who will benefit from cupping?
Anybody with tight or painful muscles would benefit from it. For most people, the change is almost immediate and the muscles relax right after the treatment, but for some people, it might take a few treatments to feel the change.
How do we use cupping differently?
We do not use fire cupping (it might be risky). We use mechanical cupping, which allows us to adjust the level of tightness.
Does it hurt?
Most people describe cupping treatment as a sensation of ‘pulling’ in their back. After removal of the cups, the sensation is usually great and patients report relief from the chronic tightness. Since we use a mechanical pump with the cupping, we can control the strength.
Is cupping dangerous?
Not at all. Cupping, when done by an experienced professional, is very safe.
What to do after the cupping treatment?
Drink plenty of water! Very important. We want to help your body to recover faster and the release and ‘flush’ toxins out of the body.
As a leader in non-surgical injury and wellness care, Valleyview Injury + Physical Medicine looks forward to helping you and your family recover from pain and get back to an active lifestyle. Call us today at (503) 489-1998 or fill out the brief contact form below to start feeling better today!