11/03/2024
Cupping and IASTM Physiotherapy .
IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization) is a technique used to break down scar tissues and fascial adhesions in soft tissues. These scar tissues and adhesions form due chronic injuries which have already gone through the body’s natural healing process. This process can cause restrictions in movement and create pain. IASTM provides the body with controlled micro-traumas which stimulates the body’s natural healing process and reorganizes scar tissue cells to better facilitate movement. This technique is commonly used for back pain, neck pain, muscle strains, ligament sprains, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and IT Band syndrome.
Dry cupping is a form of oriental medicine that can be dated as far back as 300 A.D. Traditionally, cupping was done using a small flame to create suction within a glass or bamboo cup placed on the skin. Our practice uses a more controlled and modern method using a plastic cups and a suction pump. Oriental medicine believed that cupping released blockage of “Qi” (vital energy) and blockage of vital fluids (lymph, phlegm and blood). Current research suggests that cupping helps to loosen muscles, restore range of motion, encourage blood flow and sedate the nervous system. Cupping is typically used to release chronic stress and tension on muscles.
