Cupping Therapy

What is it?

Cupping Therapy dates back to 1550 BC and was practised mainly in Egypt, China and Central Europe as a form of alternative medicine. Today, we use modern dry cupping, whose effectiveness has been scientifically documented. The physiotherapist places cups on the treatment area and uses a pump to create negative pressure. This draws the skin into the cups and increases blood flow. The cups can stay in place for up to 3 minutes. Treatment is painless, though the increased blood supply may leave slightly red circular marks that fade within a few days.

We choose the cupping method to suit the treatment goal: static application at specific points; rolling application with oil for greater hyperaemia and massage at the same time; or a combination with movement therapy or exercise. We can use it alongside other physiotherapy interventions or on its own within our sessions and rehabilitation programmes.

What are the benefits?

Studies of cupping therapy have reported a range of benefits, as have patients. Cupping therapy reduces pain and inflammation, releases connective tissue adhesions and myofascial pain points, improves blood circulation, supports the immune system and metabolism, releases toxins and helps the muscles and body relax.

It can help patients with musculoskeletal pain in the spine and peripheral limbs, including lower back pain, neck pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder tendinopathies and knee chondropathy. It is a useful tool for improving rehabilitation following sports injuries, such as muscle strains and ligament injuries, and for athletes’ recovery. It is also an important part of treatment for headaches and fibromyalgia. We use cupping to promote faster and more effective rehabilitation.