Dry cupping is a non-invasive modality whereby plastic or silicon cups are placed onto the skin to create a suction effect or vacuum inside the cup. At SnC Sports Therapy we use a pump to create the suction. This method lifts the skin and underlying tissues (including fascia), pulling them into the cup. It draws blood, rich in nutrients and oxygen to the cup and its surrounding area, increasing localised blood flow which can stimulate the healing process.
The stretching of the soft tissue created by dry cupping can cause mild micro-trauma which triggers the body’s natural inflammatory response to heal itself through the release of chemicals such as white blood cells and platelets. The stretching is also believed to relax the muscles and fascia, which can increase the range of motion for muscles and joints.
Dry cupping can be used by itself or alongside other therapies such as myofascial or soft tissue release, trigger point treatment or dry needling. It is particularly effective on neck, back, shoulders and legs.
Benefits include:
- Decrease muscle pain
- Increase localised blood flow to support the healing process
- Reduce tension
- Increase muscle pliability and range of movement
Additionally dry cupping can soften ‘old’ scar tissue and reduce numbness, tightness and pain around the scar area.
The process can leave temporary circular marks (cupping marks) which last for a few days. If it is the first dry cupping treatment or there are areas of significant muscle / tissue tension these marks can last up to 10 days although they will fade over time.