Overview: Everything You Need to Know
Cupping therapy is a hands-on physiotherapy technique that uses gentle suction applied to the skin to influence the muscles, fascia, and underlying tissues. Unlike massage, which pushes down into tissue, cupping works by lifting and decompressing the area underneath the cup.
In modern physiotherapy, it has evolved into a movement-based, evidence-informed technique, often combined with active movement, stretching, or exercise rather than used in isolation. We use high-quality plastic or silicone cups to ensure controlled suction and patient comfort.
The Patient Experience
During a session at our Mayville, Pretoria practice, you can expect:
- A strong but comfortable pulling sensation.
- Temporary redness or circular marks (these are normal physiological responses, not bruises).
- A feeling of lightness or improved movement immediately following the session.
Application Methods
Static Cupping
Cups are placed on specific tight muscle bands or trigger points and left in position briefly to encourage localized blood flow and tissue decompression.
Dynamic Cupping
Cups are moved gently over the skin while you perform active movements or guided breathing. This "sliding" technique is excellent for myofascial mobility.
Evidence & Research Support
Proposed mechanisms include increased local blood flow, changes in tissue stiffness, and neurophysiological pain modulation rather than purely structural "release." Research supports its role in multimodal care:
- PLoS One: Reported that cupping therapy may reduce musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the neck and shoulder regions.
- Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies: Noted significant improvements in perceived muscle tightness when cupping was combined with active exercise.
Clinical Benefits in Physiotherapy
- Reduction in muscle tension: The lifting effect reduces stiffness in tight or overworked muscle groups.
- Improved tissue mobility: Breaks the feeling of fascia or soft tissue being "stuck."
- Pain modulation: Calms the nervous system's pain sensitivity through neurological pathways.
- Improved movement awareness: Used with active movement to retrain how a joint or muscle functions.
- Circulation support: Increases local blood flow to assist short-term tissue recovery.
Common Conditions Treated
Cupping is integrated into broader treatment plans for:
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Upper and lower back pain
- Sports-related muscle tightness and recovery
- Postural overload or repetitive strain
- Myofascial pain patterns
- Restricted movement following an old injury
Frequently Asked Questions
Cupping should feel strong but comfortable. The suction level is adjusted carefully by your physiotherapist based on your tolerance and clinical need.
Yes, temporary circular marks are common. They usually fade within a few days and are a result of increased blood flow to the surface, not tissue damage.
When performed by a trained physiotherapist, cupping is very safe. We avoid use over open wounds, infections, or specific medical conditions which are screened during your assessment.
Some people feel short-term relief after one session, while others benefit from cupping as part of a 3-4 week ongoing rehabilitation plan.
Ready to Lift the Tension?
Experience the benefits of modern, movement-based cupping. Book your assessment in Mayville today.
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