Cupping Therapy originated in China and was used to remove boils and carbuncles in humans and animals. This modality is commonly used today by Naturopaths to detoxify and address chi imbalances in the body.

Definition:
Massage Therapists trained in cupping massage, use this technique to loosen fascial restrictions, normalize interstitial fluids by creating a suction effect between the cup and the skin.

How does this therapy work?
By creating a suction effect between the cup and the skin, the underlying fascia/connective tissue layers are gently separated. This allows the fluids that bathe all the tissues of the body to enter thereby drawing circulation to the site, bringing nutrition and oxygen in and creating a more effective pathway for the pain producing toxins and metabolites to leave. The result is immediate increase in the mobility of the treatment site. Depending on the severity of the restriction, range of motion of a joint is immediately increased and pain caused by the restriction is eliminated.

Cupping Massage can be a good choice to assist the detoxification process. Regular use of this technique can effectively support the lymphatic system in removing toxins often held in the connective tissue layers below the skin. Cellulite is often the result of stagnation of the lymphatic system and body fluids .These areas are also lacking effective circulation resulting in tenderness or increased sensitivity when touched. Cupping Massage can reduce the adhesions beneath the skin which give cellulite the "puckered" appearance, reduce skin sensitivity and facilitate circulation of both blood and lymphatic fluids.

What can you expect as a client?
You will meet with me and a myofascial assessment will be performed. If this type of therapy is indicated, I will discuss with you the preparation that needs to be in place before the cupping session.

You as the client may be asked to wear a t-shirt, shorts or other appropriate clothing. Once the site of restriction is found the cup is placed on your skin and the suction effect is created by a hand held pump. This allows for the right amount of suction to be created that is both therapeutic and within your comfort level.

This therapy can stand alone or combines well with Integrative Manual Therapy.

This therapy is not well suited for those on blood thinning medications, vasodilators, medications where bruising is common or for diabetics.