Myofascial Cupping
About Myofascial Cupping
‘Myofascia’ is a connective tissue structure that joins muscle (also known as myo) tissue and fascia together. It surround muscles, bones and organs within the body. The main function of this dense and fibrous network of connective tissue is to support and protect muscles, while also allowing flexibility and movement. In a nutshell – myofascia acts as a supportive and flexible covering for muscles, playing a crucial role in the transmission of force and movement throughout the body.
Myofascial tissue also contains myofascial trigger points, which are sensitive areas in the muscle-fascia complex that can become tight or painful, often contributing to issues like muscle stiffness or pain (commonly referred to as "myofascial pain").
Fascial tissue is also known for its role in maintaining posture and ensuring smooth, coordinated muscle movement. Regular stretching or techniques like myofascial release are often used to help relieve tightness and improve flexibility within the myofascial system.
How Can It Help You?
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Releases tight or knotted muscles
Improves flexibility and range of motion
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Increases blood flow to the area which promotes the delivery of oxygen and nutrients required for soft tissue healing
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Helps relieve chronic and acute musculoskeletal pain
Effective for back pain, neck pain, headaches, and more
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Loosens adhesions in the fascia (connective tissue)
Restores normal movement patterns
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Assists in reducing swelling and inflammation
Supports detoxification through lymph flow
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Aids in post-workout muscle recovery
Reduces soreness and fatigue
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Great for athletes and active individuals
Enhances range of motion in joints and muscles
How Does Myofascial Cupping Work?
Myofascial Cupping is a therapeutic technique that uses suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin and underlying tissues. This gentle decompression helps increase blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and improve fascial mobility. Unlike traditional massage, which compresses tissues, cupping lifts and separates layers to promote circulation and release tightness.
Is Myofascial Cupping Right For Me?
Myofascial Cupping is beneficial for individuals experiencing muscle tightness, sports injuries, postural imbalances, and chronic pain. It is often integrated into physiotherapy or remedial massage treatments, making it suitable for a broad range of people seeking enhanced mobility and overall well-being.
Before starting any Myofascial Cupping treatment, our Physiotherapists will carefully review your health history to ensure the service is suitable for you. However, if you have any existing medical conditions that could be contraindicated or require special precautions, we strongly advise consulting your doctor or healthcare provider before booking. This helps ensure that Myofascial Cupping is both safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.
Your safety and well-being are our top priority.
⚠️ Things to know about Myofascial Cupping
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Bruising
Most common side effect of cupping – the suction can cause small blood vessels (called capillaries) to bleed, which causes bruising and discolouration of the skin. The bruising usually lasts a few days to a week (but can sometimes linger a little longer than that).
Skin Irritation
Some may experience mild redness, itching, or irritation where the cups were applied. This usually disappears quickly.
Pain, Soreness Or Discomfort
While cupping generally is not painful, some people may experience soreness in where the cups were placed - a similar feeling of muscle tenderness after a massage.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Although it is uncommon, some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded during or after cupping. In a similar way to massage – cupping can cause this reaction due to a number of reasons including:
Pressure changes on the skin and within the underlying tissues can cause a change in blood circulation and overall blood flow; especially in those who are sensitive to blood pressure changes or who often have low blood pressure.
Vasodilation: The cup suction causes the blood vessels in the area to expand – this process is called vasodilation. This can result in a temporary drop in blood pressure when standing up after treatment. If your body doesn’t adjust to this blood pressure change quick enough, you can feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Relaxation Response: Similar to massage, as tension is released and the muscles relax, the body can enter a deep relaxation state. In this state, the body can undergo a temporary drop in heart rate and/or blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness following cupping.
Fluid movement throughout the body – including flushing fluid through the lymphatic system.
Infection
Although it is very rare, there is a potential for infection if the skin is broken or the cups are not sterilised properly (which we ensure we do!)
Swelling
The suction can cause local swelling in the treatment area where the cup was applied.
Headaches or Flu-like Symptoms
A small number of people report headaches or flu-like symptoms following cupping therapy, though these are usually short-lived. This is due to the above mentioned reasons (increased circulation, fluid movement throughout the body, releasing built up muscle and fascial tension)
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People with diabetes
Especially if sensation is reduced (risk of burns or blisters).
Older adults with fragile skin
Increased chance of bruising or skin damage.
Children
Must be done carefully and usually with lighter suction.
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1. During Pregnancy (Abdomen, Lower back, Upper Trapezius, around the Achilles)
Cupping should be avoided in certain areas during pregnancy to prevent stimulating contractions.
2. People with Bleeding Disorders
Conditions like haemophilia or those on blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) are at greater risk for bruising or internal bleeding.
3. Cancer patients (especially near tumors)
Increased blood flow could potentially affect tumor activity or spread.
4. People with deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Cupping over areas with blood clots can dislodge them and cause serious complications.
5. Skin conditions or infections
Avoid cupping over eczema, psoriasis, open wounds, rashes, or active skin infections.