Suction cup therapy, or Myofascial Decompression (MFD), is a manual therapy technique that uses negative pressure to decompress soft tissue. It is one of very few techniques that work by lifting of adhesions instead of compressing on tissues. Lifting and decompressing can be more effective than compression when attempting to effect certain types of scar tissue or tissue adhesions.
Cupping can be done statically, for short periods of time over one area (causing the distinctive temporary markings we saw on Olympian Michale Phelps), dynamically over a broader area, or combined with movement of the body area.
* Not all therapy clinics provide cupping therapy.
What can it treat?
- Chronic or acute pain
- Tendinitis and tendinosis
- Muscle cramping, banding, or adhesion
- Muscle strains
- Bursitis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Scar tissue
- Range of motion issues
- And more…
Clinical Effects
Suction cup therapy helps improve blood flow to and area, which can help increase flexibility and general tissue health or healing. Cups cam help many patients increase soft tissue extensibility and allow for more efficient movement.
