What is Dry Cupping?
Dry cupping is a therapeutic technique that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. Unlike wet cupping, which involves incisions to draw out blood, dry cupping focuses on drawing the skin into the cup to improve circulation and alleviate muscle tension. This method is highly valued for its ability to provide relief without the need for needles or surgery.
What are the benefits of Dry Cupping?
Dry cupping offers a range of benefits, including:
Pain Relief: Effective for muscle aches, joint pain, and back pain.
Improved Circulation: Enhances blood flow to targeted areas, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Relaxation: Provides a deep sense of relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety.
Detoxification: Helps remove toxins from the body through improved circulation and lymphatic flow.
Skin Health: Improves skin tone and can help with conditions like cellulite.
What to expect during a session
Your first dry cupping session will include a consultation to discuss your health history and treatment goals. Our therapist Brandon will explain the procedure and ensure you are comfortable.
The process of dry cupping involves several key steps:
Preparation: The therapist cleans the area of the skin where the cups will be placed.
Cup Placement: Special cups, usually made of glass, bamboo, or silicone, are placed on the skin.
Suction Creation: Suction is created using heat or mechanical devices, pulling the skin into the cup.
Duration: The cups remain on the skin for up to 2 minutes per area, the therapist will also assist in stretching body regions to increased circulation further.
Removal: The cups are carefully removed, leaving behind circular marks that fade within a few days.
Most people find the experience of cupping soothing and relaxing, though some may experience mild discomfort initially.
Is Dry Cupping right for you?
Dry cupping is suitable for most people and sometimes preferred by those that find remedial hands on massage uncomfortable or too much pressure. Dry Cupping shouldn’t cause any pain, some people experience a tightness during the procedure. It is essential to consult with our therapists at OsteoBath if you have any of the following conditions: skin infections or wounds or blood disorders or clotting issues.
How long as Dry Cupping been around?
Cupping therapy dates back to ancient Egypt, China, and the Middle East. Historical records show its use in traditional Chinese medicine as far back as 3000 BCE. The technique has been refined over centuries and integrated into various healing practices worldwide.
Sports clinical specialists and physical therapists trained to treat amateur and elite athletes, often use suction cup therapy to help athletes’ muscles recover following intense and repetitive physical activity. Olympic swimming star Michael Phelps is one of the most renowned athletes to wear cupping marks in competition, sparking worldwide interest at the 2016 Games in Rio. Heath guru and celebrity Gwynth Paltrow has also been a fan of dry cupping for more than a decade.