The Significance Of Cupping During Myotherapy
Cupping is a myofascial technique whereby a heat induced jar is attached to the skin using suction method. Various jars can be applied on the skin e.g. bamboo, glass and clay with the glass jar being the most popularly used. The transparent glass enables the myotherapist to see and regulate the suction as well as time. There is yet another cup referred to as a mechanical suction cup which doesn’t require heat induction. Most people don’t know how cupping helps myotherapy in Melbourne.
Cupping and Myofascial Treatment
As the skin is raised during the procedure, tissues release toxic chemicals and tightness of the targeted muscle. This process triggers the lymphatic system since blood moves freely in the affected area. Muscle tension is relieved hence improving cardiovascular health. Cupping also relieves nerve sensitivity and rather than pushing connective tissues from muscles, it is pulled away. Muscle tenderness and soreness get healed via cupping. This medical procedure is also applicable to remedial massage to release trigger points and relax the fascia or muscle. It is also used in conjunction with several massages to alleviate pain, increase joint mobility, and muscle toning.
Cupping Side Effects
Discoloration of the skin is one proof of cupping. The spots are normally reddish on white skin. The bruises fade away after some days. A common side effect of cupping is fatigue and light head which is totally normal since the procedure involved playing around blood circulation. A patient should not get up abruptly after treatment to avoid dizziness and must take a lot of water to flush the toxins out of the body.
Steps Involved
The jar is applied on bare skin. A patient is supposed to align the body correctly before the cups are pressed on.
The forceps are wrapped with cotton wool
Methylated spirit is used to soak the cotton ball
The cup is heated shortly with ignited cotton wool. This moderate heat causes suction effect.
The heated cup is place on the skin quickly.
Types of cupping
Mobile Cupping
Massage oil is applied on the skin prior treatment. This allows the cup to move smoothly over the skin such that muscles don’t become compressed but get pulled towards the cup. No visible marks are left on the skin.
Fixed Cupping
It is used for tight and painful muscles. The cup is allowed to stay on the point of concern for about 5 minutes. It leaves marks which can disappear after few days. If you see somebody with perfect bruises on their skin, know that these marks are not a result of car accidents but cupping. Myotherapy in Melbourne uses this technique primarily to enhance musculoskeletal functions.