Cupping Therapy

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Physical Therapy | 22 Jan 2025

Cupping Therapy

An Innovative Technique for Athletic Recovery and Performance

At The Training Room, we specialize in helping patients of all levels and athletes recover from injuries and prepare for peak performance. One technique we often recommend is Myofascial Decompression (MFD), or cupping therapy. This ancient eastern practice has been modernized in the western world making it a key component in both injury rehabilitation and pre-sport preparation.

What Is Myofascial Decompression (Cupping Therapy)?

MFD involves using suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin. This technique lifts the fascia—connective tissue surrounding muscles—promoting blood flow, reducing stiffness, and improving muscle function. This is why you may see red marks/bruises for about 5 to 10 days after application which are completely normal. We do not promote any restrictions after MFD except to limit the use of ice directly over the cupping sites (which would slow blood flow).

MFD involves using suction cups to create negative pressure on the skin
promoting blood flow, reducing stiffness, and improving muscle function.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy for Athletes

Whether you’re rehabbing an injury or gearing up for a big game, cupping therapy offers several benefits:

  • Pre-Sport Readiness
    Loosens tight muscles and fascia, improving mobility and reducing injury risk.

  • Injury Rehabilitation
    Eases restrictions caused by scar tissue, overuse, or strain, allowing for smoother movement.

  • Enhanced Recovery
    Ideal between training sessions or after competitions to reduce soreness and promote healing.

Cupping Therapy in Pre-Sport Preparation

Before a workout or game, MFD helps prepare your body for the demands ahead. By improving blood flow and reducing tightness, cupping ensures your muscles are primed for optimal performance. Scheduling a session 1–2 days before an event can maximize flexibility and mobility, and also reduce the post application soreness which may be experienced for an event. Here’s how it helps:

  • Improves Blood Flow
    The suction increases circulation to targeted areas, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles and fascia. This promotes muscle priming for performance.
  • Enhances Mobility
    By lifting the fascia and separating muscle layers, MFD improves joint and muscle range of motion, helping athletes move freely and efficiently.
  • Speeds Recovery
    For athletes competing in multiple events or training sessions, preemptive cupping can reduce soreness and stiffness, enabling faster turnaround times between activities.
Cupping Therapy

Rehab and Recovery Benefits

Cupping therapy isn’t just for pre-sport preparation—it’s also an excellent tool for anyone recovering from injuries. Whether you’re dealing with a fitness-related strain or post-surgical recovery, MFD improves tissue health and reduces pain, helping you get back to your best faster and participate in day to day life with minimal hindrances. We have seen incredible results in the clinic within 5 minutes of application in a patient’s ability to move better with overall reduced pain. This of course is always followed up with specific exercise to help strengthen or stabilize in the newfound range of motion. 

Learn more about our treatment options for fitness injuries and sports injuries.

When to Schedule Cupping Therapy

The timing of cupping therapy is critical. Many benefit from MFD a day or two before a game or intense workout to allow their body to fully respond. For those in multi-day competitions, sessions can also be used in between events for recovery and performance maintenance.

If you’re interested in learning how MFD can complement your sport-specific preparation, explore our physical therapy services.

Why Choose Cupping Therapy at The Training Room?

We tailor every treatment plan to your unique needs, combining cupping therapy with other advanced techniques to ensure you’re prepared to perform and recover effectively. Whether you’re an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or someone recovering from surgery, MFD can enhance your recovery and performance.

Ready to take your recovery or game-day prep to the next level? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover the benefits of cupping therapy.

About the Author

Dr. Sonia Saini

DPT, OCS, AIB-VRC
Dr. Saini has 9 years of experience working with a variety of patients from young athletes to film/tv stunt performers. Her specialties are in orthopedics, vestibular/concussion rehabilitation, and post cancer rehab. She also goes on U.S. tours with Broadway shows as the sole physical therapist for performers/crew. Dr. Saini earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from University of California, Davis. She went on to earn her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of California, San Francisco.