What is cupping therapy?

Cupping
By Dr. Louis Perrone
Cupping is an ancient form of therapy that utilizes glass and sometimes plastic cups for a wide range of ailments. The most common uses of cupping in our office is for sprains/strains, knee pain, low back pain, and neck pain. Cupping is a very safe and effective way to help release tension at a joint as well as bring increased blood circulation to a particular area.
Cupping provides an alternative soft tissue treatment as compared to other therapies such as medical massage and active release techniques. Instead of applying pressure to a particular area, we are utilizing a vacuum effect by pulling the tissue externally. Most treatment plans consist of about 5-6 visits to find the optimal effects of cupping.
Side effects of cupping include possible bruising in areas of treatment. Cupping is not recommended for patients on blood thinners.

Recommended cupping treatments
Calfs - recommended for runners and post-leg day workouts
Trapezius/ Neck muscles - for release of trigger points, headache relief
Low back- chronic/acute low back pain
IT band/ TFL - cups are placed on the lateral portion of the thigh for relief of IT band syndrome
Shoulders - can help alleviate frozen shoulder symptoms and tendonitis
Extremities - Helps with relief of sprains/strains