How to Use the Cupping Technique for a Back Massage
Age-old, ancient techniques have combined forces with modern science to give us the cupping technique in back massages. Cupping within a massage can do amazing things for your body, including speeding up the healing process after an injury and even alleviating physical pain.
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Things You'll Need
- Massage oil or olive oil
- Massage table
- Neck pillow for support
- Towel
- Cups (have at least ten on hand)
Instructions
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1
Make sure your client is in a comfortable position on your massage table. A pillow should be given if need to maximize comfort and stability. You don't want your patient to need to twist or turn, and want to take care that they aren't inclined to move around at all.
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2
Apply olive oil or massage oil to the back. You don't want to use a substance that is too distracting, but the goal is to be certain the the cup applies evenly to the skin. You want the cups to have a vacuum effect, so apply the oil somewhat sparingly.
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3
Place the first cup in the middle of the back, as near to the neck as possible. You should apply the next just below the first, until you have a series of cups lining up along the spine. It should go all the way down your back to the just before the buttocks. Leave these in place for ten minutes.
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4
Move the cups and place them on each side of the spine, filling up the first half of the back with the cups. These should also stay in place for ten minutes.
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Fill the bottom half of the back with the cups in the same manner. Place them on each side of the spine They should fill up the bottom half of the back, and should be left in place for ten minutes.
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6
Remove the cups, except for one. Take one in its vacuum position and drag it along all the muscles of the back. You should take it in all directions, giving it enough pressure to keep the vacuum suction in place.
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Tips & Warnings
Take great caution in giving a massage. The point is to help, never to hurt.
Observe the reactions of the receiver of your massage. If they express dismay or pain, stop.
You can do this massage as often as three times a week.
Do not attempt to give a massage for pay unless you are licensed.
Consult a doctor or professional masseuse before attempting massaging on individuals.
Bruising can occur. It's often not serious and should be responded to by simply ceasing treatment.
