Cupping & Remedial

Myofascial cupping is a modern technique based on ancient cupping, which is a form of myofascial release. “myo” is a medical term for muscle, and “fascia” is a web-like sheet or band of fibrous connective tissue that surrounds bones and envelops, separates, or binds together muscles, nerves, organs, and other tissues of the body. Myofascial release is a manipulative treatment that attempts to release tension in the fascia due to trauma, posture, or inflammation. With this cupping technique, the cup can be moved whilst there is suction of the skin, causing a regional pulling of the skin, fascia, and muscle. Myofascial cupping does not include a flame, and suction is created from a handheld device that is under complete control by the qualified therapist.

• Increased range of motion by passive stretching of the tissue. 
• An increase in nutrient-rich blood supply and heating the area being treated 
• Increased fluid movement to the tissue, assisting with recovery
• Decreases scar tissue
• Reduces muscle trigger points 
• Reduces fascial adhesion
• Re-hydrates the fascia. 
• Promotes muscle and full-body relaxation
• Relieves pain

People who may benefit the most from myofascial cupping are those who suffer from chronic pain, fascial restrictions, particularly scar tissue from old injuries or surgeries, and athletes. Cupping is generally for anybody and can be used on its own or easily incorporated into your next massage treatment.

Cupping is generally safe when applied by trained professionals. It is not recommended for people with health problems due to side effects, and we do encourage you to consult with your health practitioner prior to entering this treatment. Myofascial cupping is not recommended as a replacement for typical treatment and may result in bruising.

It is very important that you communicate with your massage therapist if/when you should feel any pain or discomfort, particularly when you cannot tolerate it. Similar to a remedial massage, myofascial cupping does focus on a deeper point in the muscles, and while pain usually is an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed, the pressure should be adjusted if you are struggling to bear this treatment (again, this is where you will communicate any discomfort to your therapist during the treatment). As well, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works better with your body’s natural response, not against it.

Fascial tissue is full of nerves and can easily get hurt. It’s important to consider that when the fascia is healthy, it is relaxed and can be stretched and moved. However, when the fascia is hurt, it becomes tight, less mobile, and restricted, and regardless of the point that is damaged, a source of tension occurs to the entire body.

The therapist will always consult with you upon completion of your treatment. Depending on your body and if they have located any “problematic areas,” you will generally be recommended to return at least once every 30 days. This is a way to maintain your body in an attempt to prevent any pain or discomfort. If you should have any “problematic areas,” you will be recommended more frequent visits at the discretion of your therapist until the area has been addressed and rectified back to a more acceptable state.

Chronic stress causes the fibres to thicken in an attempt to protect the underlying muscle, as well as poor posture, lack of flexibility, and repetitive movements that pull the fascia into ingrained patterns.

Your myofascial cupping treatment can either be carried out on its own as a sole treatment or in addition to your other selected massage treatment, whether this be added on top of or combined into your massage treatment. If this is added or performed on its own, your myofascial cupping treatment will last the full amount of 20 minutes as advertised with 5 minutes added on either side to your treatment, allowing you to undress and dress accordingly. Otherwise, if this is included in your massage, your massage therapist will determine the length of the treatment, which is usually applied between 10-20 minutes, depending on the necessity to use this therapy in your treatment.

It is recommended you allow yourself some relaxation time prior to and after the session and are more than welcome to utilise our lounge chairs in our waiting area. If you should decide to arrive early and insist on waiting for 5-10 minutes prior to your massage, even if the massage therapist is ready to take you through for your treatment, we will offer you tea or bottled water.