What is Cupping?
A Cuppingor cupping therapy, é uma técnica utilizada na Medicina Tradicional Chinesa (MTC).
It is a technique used to help relieve muscle tension, stiffness and heaviness in areas such as the back, shoulders, neck and legs.
It can be applied using fixed or sliding suction cups and is often integrated with Acupuncture or in combination with Tui Na Therapeutic Massage.
It is well known for leaving "circular marks" on people's backs. Although that is not the point, the controlled suction techniques over the muscles and tissues can trigger such temporary response. As sore it may look on the outside, those who try it immediately feel relief. For most our patients - this is the best part of the treatment.
Cupping in 3 steps:
Patient assessment
Before any treatment, we'll go through all your symptoms, areas of tension and test your mobility.
We'll also take in consideration your medical history and possible contra-indications, such as skin rashes, sensitivity or even pain threshold. Cupping shouldn't be applied in case of extreme sensitivity to touch.
Cupping techniques
There are mainly two cupping techniques:
- Static cupping: cups remain a few seconds in the same area
- Gliding cupping: Oil is applied to the skin, allowing the suction cups to glide over different muscle groups.
The application usually lasts between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the region treated, the intensity chosen and the objective of the session.
Cupping is not a standalone treatment
At Clínica Sintra Saúde, cupping is typically combined with Acupuncture, massage or other manual treatments.
After application, we assessed the pain, tension and limited movements again. This way, we understand how the body responded to the treatment and if there are any areas that still need attention.
What is cupping used for
In general, cupping therapy is recommended for:
- Relieving muscle pain and stiffness
- Promoting relaxation and reducing stress
- Improving mobility
- Speeds up recovery, so it can it into athlete's routines
- Reinforces acupuncture treatments
Treatments are adjusted to the individual. Cupping is safe for both months old babies to our senior patients (and we have a few!).
Why does cupping leave marks?
The suction effect induced by the cups can leave temporary circular marks on the skin.
The tonality of these marks depends on several factors:
- the amount of pressure used
- the duration of the application
- the skin sensitivity
- the area treated
- the (lack of) vascular strength
- medication
We believe in science. So, first of all, marks do not reflect "toxins". In treatment, we often compare sliding suction cups to a comb that runs through the hair. In areas where there is greater tension or sensitivity, we often feel more resistance to the suction cup's movement. Interestingly, these are also the areas that tend to leave more noticeable marks.
These marks result from the response of the skin and small vessels to suction. They do not necessarily mean the presence of “toxins” or stagnant blood, but they often coincide with areas that were more sensitive and tense before treatment.
Cupping marks typically disappear gradually over a few days. Therefore, if you have an event, are planning a trip to the beach or any activity where you do not want to show visible marks, you must inform the professional before the treatment. However, we do like to say, it is fine to sunbathe or swim after the treatments - there is no down time.
Integrating cupping with training, performance and wellbeing routines
Whether you're a runner, a gym goer, a swimmer, a baller or a padel player, you've definitely felt heavy muscles after a more demanding training or workout.
In such cases, which we love to treat, cupping therapy can support recovery and help reduce the feeling of muscle stiffness. However, it does not replace rest, hydration, proper nutrition, or progressive rehabilitation.
It can also do wonders for those who spend many hours sitting at the computer. Applying sliding cups to the trapezius, shoulders and back can help relieve the feeling of heaviness accumulated throughout the day.
When there is persistent pain or limited movement, it is important to understand whether we're dealing with muscular or structural changes. For example, not all pain in the upper back and shoulder region has the same origin. Learn more in our article about the common causes of shoulder pain.
When to book Cupping at Clínica Sintra Saúde
Should absolutely be considered when:
- there is frequent tension or pain
- heavy sensation in the shoulders
- tightness after training or work
- intermitent pain
- mobility restriction
- upper back and neck tension
- ... if you feel like other treatments aren't enough
If the pain has developed after a fall or there is lack of strength, tingling, inability to move the area, or is progressively getting worse - medical assistance is recommended.
Now, for those is pain asking our recommendation - at Clínica Sintra Saúde, acupuncture and cupping are our gold standard. Come and visit us.
Book your treatment - pick Acupuncture on our booking platform Fresha. If you prefer, contact us directly by phone on +351 219210023.
See you in treatment!
