Equine cupping - relieve pain and release muscle tension

WHAT IS CUPPING

Cupping has been used for thousands of years. Cups apply a suction or vacuum force against the skin and with this vacuum force pull the muscle with the skin. This vacuum effect creates a pulling action which allows for the separation of fused or adhered tissue. The separation of these fused or adhered tissues allow for increased blood flow and oxygen to reach the tissues. This increased blood flow relieves pain and releases tension deep within the muscle. Cupping is also very useful in facilitating the flow of lymphatic fluid and can assist in reducing inflammation and swelling. 

BENEFITS OF CUPPING

• Cups encourage circulation
• Alleviation of muscle/tissue adhesions
• Help clear congestion and stagnation
• Cups can lift, rehydrate and manipulate fascia which increases flexibility and muscle pliability 
• Cups encourage the development of healthy blood vessels
• Cups help alleviate excessive pressure on sensory organs in soft tissue, which leads to a reduction in pain
• Cups generate a continuous movement of fluid within the layers of soft tissue
• Relieves inflammation 
• Promotes relaxation 

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AN EQUINE CUPPING SESSION 

Cups are an adjunctive therapy that are used during an equine sports massage session or as a stand alone session. I recommend that they be used in conjunction with an equine sports massage session for the maximum benefit. The therapist may suggest the use of cups in cases where tissues are tightly bound or areas where the exhibits tension, muscle adhesion, restriction, and/or for large muscle groups including the base of the neck, shoulder, withers, back, and hindquarters.. When the cup is applied the horse will feel the suction of the tissue into the cup. The horse may flinch or move around the first time the cup is applied, or if there is significant tension. The horse will usually relax. The relaxation will be exhibited with lip licking, lowering of the head, relaxed stance, closing the eyes, yawning, etc. The cups are left in place for no longer than 1-2 minutes. The time may increase with subsequent sessions as the horse becomes more accustomed to the therapy. The cups may be left in one place or the therapist may slide the cup along the tissue where there is a large area of tension or "knotted" tissue.

After the session, the owner may notice or feel a raised area of tissue and/or increased heat in the area. These are not signs to be concerned about and will decrease in a few hours to a day. The increased heat in the area is a sign of increased blood flow, fluid movement, and the release of toxins from the body.

It is recommended that the horse be allowed to rest for the remainder of the day after the session and for 1-3 days after the session to maximize the benefit of the session. The recommendation for "down-time" after the massage will vary from horse to horse and will be made based on the condition of the horse, the reason for the season, and the goal of the session.