Myofascial cupping is a negative pressure soft tissue treatment technique utilised to manipulate the skin and fascial tissue. Using suction, the cups have the ability to grab and lift the fascia that may allow for lymphatic drainage of toxins, as well as stretching the fascial tissue to increase mobilisation. It is suggested that by using the appropriate cup size for the anatomical area being treated, there can be some relief of a deep fascial adhesion and allow for the muscle alone to move free of restriction. Recently researchers have found that cupping therapy could alter skin blood flow, change the biomechanical properties of the skin, increase pressure pain thresholds and reduce inflammation.1
This technique is used in conjunction with your remedial massage, myotherapy or osteopathic treatment to enhance mobility, and decrease restriction. In myofascial cupping, the aim is not to create bruising as often seen in traditional cupping, in fact the opposite effect is created by moving the cups during the treatment to allow increased blood flow to stagnant areas and allow fresh oxygenated blood to enter the tissues.
1.Warren, A. J., LaCross, Z., Volberding, J. L., & O'Brien, M. S. (2020). ACUTE OUTCOMES OF MYOFASCIAL DECOMPRESSION (CUPPING THERAPY) COMPARED TO SELF-MYOFASCIAL RELEASE ON HAMSTRING PATHOLOGY AFTER A SINGLE TREATMENT. International journal of sports physical therapy, 15(4), 579–592.