What is Cupping?
Photo by Katherine Hanlon on Unsplash
Cupping has been a popular practice in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and it has gained popularity in recent years as a form of alternative therapy. Cupping therapy involves placing cups on the skin to create suction, which helps to increase blood flow, relieve muscle tension, and promote healing. It has been used in combination with physical therapy to provide pain relief and improve mobility in patients.
At PAR5PT we can improve physical function after an injury or illness. Our physical therapists work with patients to improve their mobility, strength, and flexibility, as well as to manage pain and prevent further injury. When combined with cupping therapy, physical therapy can be even more effective in helping patients recover from injury or illness.
Cupping therapy can help physical therapy in several ways. First, cupping can help to relieve muscle tension and pain, which can make physical therapy exercises easier to perform. The suction created by the cups helps to stretch the muscles, which can also improve flexibility and range of motion. Cupping therapy can also help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can speed up the healing process and reduce inflammation.
When used in conjunction with physical therapy, cupping therapy can help to treat a variety of conditions, including:
Back pain: Cupping therapy can help to relieve tension in the muscles of the back, which can help to reduce back pain. This can be especially helpful for patients who are recovering from an injury or who have chronic back pain.
Neck pain: Cupping therapy can help to relieve tension in the neck muscles, which can reduce neck pain and improve mobility.
Shoulder pain: Cupping therapy can help to relieve tension in the muscles of the shoulder, which can reduce pain and improve range of motion.
Knee pain: Cupping therapy can help to relieve tension in the muscles around the knee, which can reduce pain and improve mobility.
Plantar fasciitis: Cupping therapy can help to relieve tension in the muscles of the foot, which can reduce pain and improve mobility for patients with plantar fasciitis.
When combined with physical therapy, cupping therapy can be a safe and effective way to manage pain and promote healing. Physical therapists who are trained in cupping therapy can provide their patients with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes a combination of physical therapy exercises and cupping therapy. This can help patients to recover more quickly and effectively from injuries or illnesses, and can improve their overall quality of life.
It is important to note that cupping therapy should only be performed by trained professionals, as improper use can lead to injury or other complications. Patients who are interested in cupping therapy should speak to one of our physical therapists to determine if it is an appropriate form of treatment for their specific condition.
Cupping therapy can be an effective addition to physical therapy for pain management and rehabilitation. When used properly and in conjunction with physical therapy, cupping therapy can help patients recover from injuries or illnesses more quickly and effectively, and can improve their overall quality of life.
If you are interested in learning more about how cupping can help you, contact PAR5 Physical Therapy for more information.
PAR 5 Physical Therapy specializes in helping active individuals in Morris County, NJ get back to exercising and working out pain-free without having to take time off or relying on injections/pain medication. PAR5PT offers physical therapy and performance services to all populations, with specialties in Orthopedics, Golf Fitness Training and Rehab, and Manual Therapy Techniques, and Wellness Services.
If you’re dealing with anything, big or small, and you have questions, just call/text 973-490-4955.