Cupping

Cupping therapy is an alternative treatment method with roots dating back over 3,000 years ago. More commonly known as an eastern medicine treatment it has slowly increased in popularity over the years especially with its use during the 2016 summer Olympics. Three primary methods of cupping exist.

The cups used can come in a variety of shapes and sizes to assist in creating the intended results. The cups exert their effects via the suction force which creates a lifting effect over the skin and targeted area.

This suction force assists in drawing additional blood flow and oxygenation to the local tissue. After the removal of the cup slight skin markings may occur such as simple red rings or bruising due to damage of the capillaries just under the skin. This will resolve in a few days and is not painful.

 

Dry Cupping

Dry cupping therapy involves using a suction force to create an area of localized tissue decompression. The pressure from the cup also greatly assists in drawing blood flow and oxygenation to the area to assist with healing.

Wet Cupping

Wet cupping therapy involves creating small incisions in the skin prior to application of the cup to draw out toxins. This version of cupping is very common in Middle Eastern and Eastern medicine.

*Please note Symmetry only performs Dry Cupping in Clinic*

Fire Cupping

Fire cupping therapy involves placing a cotton ball soaked in pure alcohol into the cup prior to application. This fire serves to heat the inside of the cup as well as create a suctioning effect due to the contrast between the warm air and the cooling air.

*Please note Symmetry only performs Dry Cupping in Clinic*

cupping practices during physical therapy treatments

The Effects of Cupping Therapy

  • Decrease pain
  • Decrease muscle spasm and tension
  • Lift connective tissue
  • Facilitate with blood flow, oxygenation, and healing

At Symmetry Physical Therapy our therapist’s are trained in dry cupping. Following an in-depth initial evaluation and physical therapy program design, your therapist will decide if cupping is indicated for you!

Ready to reach your movement goals. Check your benefits now!

About

Symmetry Physical Therapy is a privately owned one-on-one, patient-centered physical therapy clinic in Downtown Miami/Brickell. Every treatment is with the same Doctor of Physical Therapy for the entire hour. Symmetry’s specialized, dedicated, and passionate team of physical therapists is fully committed to each patient’s success.

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