There are different types of vacuum cups: silicone (rock pods), glass vacuum and hot cupping. I use rock pods and vacuum, they both have different uses.
A ring of compression is created, this creates decompression under the cup. This is supported by Ultrasonography. The reddening is caused by the capillary network, this is called Ecchymosis, or Erythema, (markings or blemishes) it is NOT bruising, as it is not caused by injury.
The cupping process is called diapedesis, that creates an inflammatory immune response. This process causes a pain reducing and anti-inflammatory response.
Some research suggests that cupping can cause increased vascularization.
The theory proposes that when a non – painful tactile stimulation, such as massage is applied to a perceived painful area, we experience pain relief in that specific body location. Ie rubbing a sore spot. Cupping over the area may reduce pan via the pain-gate mechanism.
Any short term pain relief is an outcome.
Cupping can help a stiff body move with out pain, that provides a learning experience that pain can be managed and thus encourage movement. This provides information to the brain, and harnessing an analgesic and mechano-stimulating movement, offers a biophysical model.
How we feel, our experiences all affect our health and wellness. The delivery of manual stimulus, such as massage, mobilisation, cupping offers a therapeutic input. Cupping is a modern approach to injury and pain management.
