Cupping Therapy: What it is and How it Works in Physical Therapy

Posted on March 28th, 2023

At Treat Train Maintain, we're committed to helping our clients feel their best through a range of physical therapy and exercise rehab services. One of the treatments we offer is cupping therapy, which has become increasingly popular in recent years. In this blog post, we'll explore what cupping therapy is and how it can be used in physical therapy to promote healing and improve overall health.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is a form of alternative medicine that has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine. It involves placing special cups on the skin and creating a vacuum to draw the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. This suction can help to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.

How Does Cupping Therapy Work in Physical Therapy?

Cupping therapy can be used in physical therapy to address a wide range of conditions, including:

1. Muscle pain and tension: Cupping therapy can help to alleviate muscle pain and tension by increasing blood flow and releasing tight knots in the muscles.
2. Sports injuries: Cupping therapy can be effective for treating sports injuries such as sprains, strains, and muscle tears.
3. Chronic pain: Cupping therapy can help to alleviate chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.
4. Respiratory issues: Cupping therapy can be used to treat respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis by improving lung function and reducing inflammation in the airways.

What to Expect During a Cupping Therapy Session

If you're interested in trying cupping therapy, here's what you can expect during a session:

1. Consultation: Your physical therapist will begin by asking about your medical history and the specific condition you're seeking treatment for.
2. Treatment plan: Based on your consultation, your physical therapist will create a treatment plan that's tailored to your specific needs.
3. Cup placement: During the treatment, your physical therapist will place special cups on the skin and create a vacuum to draw the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. You may feel a slight suction or pressure, but cupping therapy is generally not painful.
4. Relaxation: Once the cups are in place, you'll be asked to lie still and relax for around 10-15 minutes.
5. Cup removal: After the session, your physical therapist will remove the cups and provide you with any aftercare advice you need.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy in Physical Therapy

There are many benefits to using cupping therapy in physical therapy, including:

1. Increased blood flow: Cupping therapy can help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
2. Pain relief: Cupping therapy can be effective for alleviating pain by releasing tight knots in the muscles and reducing inflammation.
3. Improved range of motion: Cupping therapy can help to improve range of motion by loosening tight muscles and reducing stiffness.
4. Relaxation: Cupping therapy can be a deeply relaxing experience, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Is Cupping Therapy Right for You?

Cupping therapy can be a safe and effective treatment for many people, but it's important to speak with your physical therapist to determine whether it's right for you. Some people may not be suitable for cupping therapy, such as those with skin conditions or who are taking blood-thinning medications.

If you're interested in trying cupping therapy, we encourage you to book an appointment with one of our experienced physical therapists. We'll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that's tailored to your specific needs and goals, so you can feel your best and get back to doing the things you love.