Cupping has been used for centuries to alleviate pain and promote healing. While traditional forms of cupping involve the use of fire and glass cups, at Resolve Wellness we take a more modern approach. Our innovative gliding cupping technique offers a more comfortable and effective alternative to stationary cupping.
What is Gliding Cupping?
Gliding cupping, also known as dynamic cupping, is a type of cupping therapy that uses silicone cups to glide smoothly over the skin. The cups are placed on the skin to create gentle suction that effectively decompresses the underlying tissue and are then maneuvered by the massage therapist to release tension in specific areas. Unlike stationary cupping, which can be quite uncomfortable, gliding cupping creates a massage-like sensation. This technique is often used in conjunction with other massage modalities to enhance the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
To see gliding cupping in action, check out our video on Instagram!
Gliding Cupping vs. Stationary Cupping
While both gliding and stationary cupping involve the use of cups, they differ in their application and purpose. Traditional stationary cupping involves placing cups on the skin and creating a vacuum with either fire or an air pump, pulling the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. The cups are left in place for a few minutes, and when removed, they leave circular marks on the skin that can last for hours or up to several days. Gliding cupping massage, on the other hand, involves the movement of cups over the skin in a specific pattern with a much gentler amount of suction.
Benefits of Gliding Cupping Massage
Gliding cupping massage has numerous health benefits, including:
Increased Circulation: The movement of the cups over the skin increases blood flow to the treated area, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Pain Relief: Gliding cupping can help to relieve tension in the muscles and alleviate pain caused by conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.
Improved Range of Motion: Gliding cupping therapy can help improve range of motion in the joints and muscles, making it an ideal treatment for athletes and people with mobility issues.
Reduced Stress & Anxiety: The massage-like sensation of gliding cupping can help promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does Gliding Cupping Leave a Mark?
The cups are not left in one place and therefore are far less likely to create the circular marks associated with traditional cupping. As with any massage technique, gliding cupping may cause slight redness as blood flow to the area increases however this redness fades quickly after the massage is over.
Is Gliding Cupping Painful?
Gliding cupping massage is a non-invasive and gentle treatment that is generally pain-free. Our clients often find gliding cupping to be quite a relaxing experience. Some people may experience slight discomfort during the treatment, but this is usually mild and only lasts for a short time. The pressure of the cups can be adjusted to ensure maximum comfort for the client.
Is Gliding Cupping Right for Me?
Gliding cupping therapy can be beneficial to just about everyone! Because it helps to reduce tension and inflammation, gliding cupping is particularly beneficial for conditions such as:
Chronic Muscle Pain & Tension
Fibromyalgia
Arthritis
Sciatica
Headaches & Migraines
Anxiety & Stress
Digestive issues
Add Gliding Cupping to Your Next Massage!
If you're looking to enhance your massage experience and reap the many benefits of gliding cupping therapy, consider adding it to your next massage session at Resolve Wellness. Simply select “Cupping” under “Add-Ons” on our appointment request page!
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Ariela Liberman is a Marketing Associate and a staff writer for Resolve Wellness, with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies. Born and raised in San Diego, she is a Southern California native with a passion for writing, digital marketing, health, and wellness.
Reviewed by: Erynne Hill, MS, ATC, HHP, BFRC, a Nationally Certified Athletic Trainer and Massage Therapist who has been a part of the healthcare field since 2002. She is the Director of Resolve Wellness, specializing in manual lymphatic drainage and prenatal massage. Erynne has extensive knowledge of both massage and physiology, even receiving her Master's degree in Exercise Physiology from San Diego State University.