Cupping

Myofascial cupping uses silicone cups or a vacuum pump with plastic cups to create suction (negative pressure) on the surface of the skin. The cups are placed on the body in specific areas to optimize the flow of nerve pathways and circulation. Cupping used in massage treatment is designed to address the fascial and muscular lines of the body. Silicone cups are used when adding stretches into the massage and for working around curved or bony areas. The vacuum pump and plastic cups allow better control of pressure causing less cup re-positioning and loss of suction.

• Reduces superficial and deep scar tissue 
• Correctly aligns collagen fibers 
• Increases lymphatic drainage (detoxification)
• Brings nutrient-rich blood to injured areas
• Increases circulation 
• Promotes relaxation 
• Passively stretches muscle tissue
• Increases range of motion 
• Helps to eliminate the appearance of cellulite 
• Assists in the reduction of localized inflammation
• Aids in muscle, joint, ligament and tendon recovery

• Connective tissue issues 
• Headaches and migraines
• Tendinitis and tenosynovitis
• Muscular and joint ailments
• Frozen shoulder syndrome 
• Plantar fasciitis 
• Fibromyalgia 
• Localized areas of pain
• Sports injuries and increasing sports performance 
• Rotator cuff tear recovery
• Carpal tunnel

Clients describe the sensation of cupping to be light, a slight tugging, or feel ”oddly relaxing”. As the pressure is directed up and away from the skin and muscle tissue, it allows for deeper physiological effects to take place without the similar pain or sharp sensations associated with firm pressure or deep tissue massage. Cupping is known for leaving circles of varying sizes and color in faded pinks and reds to dark purple as areas of stagnation, detoxification, and adhered fascial tissue are treated. The length of time that these marks take to disappear is different for every client is different; some leave with minimal cup marks and others can expect them to stay for up to two weeks. 

Myofascial Cupping can be made a regular part of your healthcare regime. Individual treatment plans and protocols are created by our massage therapists for clients with specific goals or seeking treatment of an ailment. 4 Elements Massage Clinic recommends a cupping treatment at least once every 4 weeks to maintain a client’s optimal health.