Austin Therapeutic Bodywork
Nan Hofer, LMT, CKTP, CSRT
Massage Cupping Therapy
Massage Cupping Therapy is a modified version of the Traditional Chinese Medicine practice of cupping therapy. With Traditional Chinese Medicine, the cup is placed on the skin, with a significant amount of suction, and not moved for several minutes. This often results in the red/purple circle markings left on the skin, called a "cup kiss".
With the Massage Cupping modality, a negative pressure or suction is created with the cup, and, then massage is performed using the cup. With Massage Cupping, much less suction is used, and using oil or lotion enables the cups to glide across the skin. Instead of the regular downward pressure you get from traditional massage therapy, Massage Cupping creates a lift and separation in the tissue. The skin will get a nice pink tone, signaling increased circulation. There should be very little other marking as a result of Massage Cupping, as the cups are only "parked" in one place briefly so as to allow a deeper release of problem spots.
The therapeutic results of Massage Cupping include:
- Softening tight muscles and toning attachments
- Releasing adhesions and lifting connective tissue
- Reducing scar tissue
- Relieving pain
- Improving circulation and stimulating blood flow
- Increased range of movement
- Moving stagnation in the tissues
- Relieving inflammation
- Draining excess fluids and toxins by opening lymphatic pathways
- Sedating the nervous system
In general, Massage Cupping releases rigid soft tissue, drains excess toxins and fluids, loosens adhesions, lifts connective tissue and brings blood flow to stagnant muscles and skin.
Nan is certified in the Massage Cupping modality by ACE Massage Cupping Institute. Cupping therapy will be integrated into a bodywork session and is not an add-on service resulting in any additional charges.
