Myofascial Decompression or “cupping” has been used in China for thousands of years.
Evidence of myofascial treatment using negative pressure cupping dates back as far as 281 AD. At South Sound Physical Therapy, we haven’t been doing it quite that long, but we’re happy to offer its therapeutic benefits just the same.
Most manual therapy techniques like massage, myofascial release, and joint mobilization are compressive in nature. Myofascial decompression, on the other hand, uses negative pressure to decompress adhesions (spots where connective tissues are stuck) to allow for increased blood flow and improved nutrient exchange for better healing. It helps in the treatment of wounds, skin grafts, and musculoskeletal pain and stiffness, more than making up for the dark marks it can temporarily leave behind on skin.