At our Kogarah Clinic, Maddy, a diploma-certified massage therapist, offers cupping massage; a blend of cupping therapy and remedial massage. She trained at The Australian Learning Group in Sydney, earning her Diploma in Remedial Massage Therapy and Cert IV in Massage. Maddy specializes in Swedish Relaxation Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Trigger Point Therapy, Pregnancy Massage, and Aromatherapy. Her extensive knowledge of anatomy and fitness, supported by her Cert III & IV in Fitness and a Diploma in Fitness Management, allows her to focus on reducing pain, increasing range of motion, and enhancing well-being.
What is Cupping Massage?
Cupping is an ancient technique with roots in Egypt, China, and the Middle East, dating back to 1550 B.C. This practice uses glass, bamboo, or plastic cups to create suction on the skin, boosting circulation, easing muscle tension, and increasing flexibility. The suction draws blood to the skin’s surface, often leaving red or purple marks, known as “cup kisses.”
In Maddy’s practice, myofascial cupping targets the musculoskeletal system to release tight fascia and muscle tissue. Unlike traditional Chinese cupping, which follows meridian lines, myofascial cupping focuses on muscles and uses plastic cups with a vacuum pump. This modern approach avoids open flames, providing a safer experience for clients.
The Cupping Process
Maddy begins by discussing your medical history and treatment goals. Cupping usually focuses on the back but can target other areas. Using a hand-operated pump, Maddy creates suction with plastic cups on your skin. She applies two main styles of myofascial cupping:
- Gliding Cupping: With oil applied to the skin, the cups glide over the treatment area, pulling the tissue up into the cup. This motion helps stretch and release tight fascia, improving blood flow.
- Stationary Cupping: The cups stay in one spot for a few minutes, often over a muscle knot or area of tension. This method offers targeted relief and can leave temporary bruising.
The suction may feel unusual at first, and you might experience slight tenderness. Maddy can adjust the suction to ensure your comfort.
Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy, especially when combined with remedial massage, provides several benefits:
- Pain Relief and Relaxation: Cupping reduces muscle tightness and can relieve acute pain, like neck stiffness from an awkward sleeping position.
- Improved Range of Motion: By easing muscle and fascia tension, cupping enhances flexibility, which is beneficial for athletes and those with chronic tightness.
- Increased Blood Circulation: Cupping draws blood to the surface, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to tight or injured areas, supporting tissue repair and reducing localized inflammation.
- Effective Fascia Release: For chronic muscle tightness, cupping lifts and stretches the fascia, offering relief when traditional massage techniques aren’t enough.
Does Cupping Hurt?
The sensation varies. Gliding cupping may feel intense at first, but discomfort generally eases as muscles relax. Stationary cupping may feel tender initially but becomes tolerable over time. If the pressure feels excessive, Maddy can reduce the vacuum.
Book Cupping Therapy with Remedial Massage
Interested in the benefits of cupping therapy? Maddy offers personalized 60- and 90-minute sessions. Click here to book your session and start your journey to better well-being.
