ptspin
by Joel Scherr
Cupping - Therapeutic Relief that
promotes blood flow and recovery
Cupping is a vacuum based
therapy with either a mechanical or
manual pump that provides similar
results as dry needling because of
the blood flow rush that it creates
in the area being “vacuumed.”
If patients are afraid of needles
through such treatments as dry
needling, this is a much easier way
to provide relief.
Some symptoms that cupping
can relieve are muscle dysfunction,
back pain, neck pain, and post
surgical activities that may have
limited range of motion.
The circulation of fluids extract
toxins and improve blood flow.
Cupping can be used as a recovery
method, whether it is after a game,
workout. or surgery.
Michael Phelps used cupping
during
the
Olympics
after
swimming races, and most recently
North Carolina’s point guard Joel
Berry used cupping while in the
locker room after an ankle injury
while playing Kentucky. He was
back on the court after just missing
a few minutes of the game and
helped the Tar Heels to a victory in
the Elite Eight.
Cupping provides an immediate
comfort feeling after the therapy is
complete. The area is normally
warm and can be discolored
depending on the length of the
treatment.
While it can offer comfort, it is
still important that those interested
in the treatment speak to healthcare
professionals to assess individual
needs. There may be some indicators
that could suggest cupping may not
be the best treatment.
See page 20 for Copy Editor Shayne
Narro’s experience with cupping.