Cupping Therapy In ISlington

What is Cupping therapy?

Cupping is almost like a deep tissue massage with suction and decompression. Many practitioners believe cupping helps keep the body in balance, increases overall blood flow and reduces pain. Athletes often use this type of therapy to decrease muscle recovery time. It is often used in conjunction with Sports Massage.

How does it work?

Cupping uses a cup to pull an area of skin into a suction that decompresses muscles and connective tissue. This promotes blood flow to the compromised area, enhances circulation and helps to increase the body’s own healing processes — almost like a backward deep tissue massage. Two popular types of cupping: stationary and sliding. Stationary cupping uses suction only, keeping the cups in place for a set time, usually 5 to 10 minutes. Sliding cupping is more like a deep tissue massage where the practitioner moves the cups over the area of pain or concern.

What to expect during and after a Cupping session?

Some people love the sensation. Others hate it. In most cases, you will notice some bruising around the treated area. Bruises may be pink, red or sometimes purple or dark brown. Bruising typically goes away within two weeks. You may also notice changes on the surface of the skin. It’s important to take care of yourself after a treatment. Stay warm, cover up, drink plenty of water and eat wholesome foods. You should also avoid swimming or showering within three hours of a cupping session.

Cupping Therapy , consultation, and assessment at Dr Stretch, Essex road, Angel, Islington

FAQs

  • A: Cupping therapy is a form of alternative therapy where cups are placed on the skin to create suction. This suction promotes blood flow, relieves muscle tension, and stimulates healing.

  • A: Cupping therapy works by creating a vacuum or suction effect on the skin. This suction draws the skin and underlying tissues into the cup, which can help improve blood circulation, loosen fascia, release toxins, and promote relaxation.

  • A: Cupping therapy is believed to have several potential benefits, including reducing muscle soreness and tension, promoting tissue healing, improving blood circulation, releasing fascial restrictions, aiding in detoxification, and promoting relaxation and stress relief.

  • A: Cupping therapy is generally not painful. However, during the session, you may experience a sensation of tightness, warmth, or a pulling feeling as the cups create suction on your skin. After the cups are removed, temporary marks or bruises may appear, but they are usually painless and fade over time.

  • A: Yes, there are different cupping techniques commonly used. The two main types are:

    Dry cupping: In dry cupping, cups are placed on the skin without any additional treatment or substance. The suction is created by either heating the cups or using a mechanical pump.

    Wet cupping: Wet cupping involves making small incisions on the skin before applying the cups. This allows controlled amounts of blood to be drawn out during the session.

  • A: Cupping therapy may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a qualified practitioner or healthcare professional to determine if cupping therapy is appropriate for your specific condition or situation. It is generally not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, such as pregnant women, those with skin conditions, or individuals with bleeding disorders.

  • A: The duration of a cupping therapy session can vary depending on the individual and the areas being treated. Sessions typically last between 15 to 30 minutes, but it can vary based on the practitioner's approach and the client's needs.

    At Dr Stretch in Angel Islington, we always incorporate cupping with sports massage to maximize the effectiveness of each session. Therefore, we recommend booking a minimum of 45 minutes per session.

  • A: Cupping therapy is generally considered safe when performed by a trained professional. Temporary skin discoloration or bruising is a common side effect and typically resolves within a few days or weeks. In rare cases, individuals may experience skin infections, burns, or discomfort, especially if the cups are left in one place for too long or applied incorrectly. It is important to seek treatment from a qualified practitioner to minimise any risks.

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