Myofascial Decompression (Cuptherapy) in Colorado Springs
Lift restrictions, enhance blood flow, and accelerate healing with innovative decompression therapy
What is Myofascial Decompression?
Myofascial Decompression (MFD) is an innovative therapy technique that combines traditional “cupping”, which we call cuptherapy with movement-based interventions. At Summit Physio & Performance, we use specialized cups to create suction on the skin, lifting the fascia and underlying tissues to promote healing and restore optimal movement.
Unlike traditional massage that compresses tissues downward, MFD creates a unique decompressive force that lifts tissues upward. This approach helps relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance athletic performance by specifically targeting the fascia,the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs. When combined with active movement patterns, MFD becomes a powerful tool for addressing musculoskeletal restrictions and optimizing physical function.
How Myofascial Decompression Works
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The suction effect lifts skin, fascia, and muscle layers away from each other, creating space that allows for improved fluid movement and reduced adhesions between tissue layers.
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The negative pressure draws blood to the treated area, bringing oxygen and nutrients while helping flush out metabolic waste products that contribute to pain and stiffness.
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The lifting action helps break up adhesions and scar tissue while encouraging the fascia to return to its normal, flexible state.
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The unique sensory input from decompression can help reset pain signals and improve proprioception (body awareness), leading to better movement patterns.
The Science of Decompression
While most manual therapies use compression, MFD uses negative pressure to achieve therapeutic effects. This unique approach:
Separates tissue layers that have become adhered
Creates micro-trauma that stimulates healing responses
Improves lymphatic drainage and reduces inflammation
Promotes collagen remodeling in damaged tissues
Unlike in traditional Eastern medicine, we don’t interpret post-treatment color as diagnostic or prognostic. The appearance of darker marks simply reflects local circulatory response, not toxicity or stagnation, and typically fades within several days. If the issue is more raised up vs. flat this is a sign of more desertification and restriction of tissue in the area. These marks typically fade within 3-7 days.
Gliding Cupping
Cups are moved along fascial lines and muscle groups to address broader areas of restriction and improve tissue mobility. Often we use less pressure as we glide the cups along the tissue.
Scar Mobilization
Specialized techniques using small cups to break up scar tissue and improve tissue pliability after surgery or injury.
Pressure-Targeted Decompression
We use a pneumatic system with calibrated controls (not manual hand pumps) to set precise negative-pressure targets for the tissue depth we’re treating.
Static Cupping
Cups remain in place for 30 sec to a few minutes to create sustained decompression in specific areas of restriction. We may implement this in areas where it is challenging to move the area being treated.
Dynamic Cupping with Movement
We combine cup application with active movements to address fascial restrictions through full ranges of motion, dramatically improving results compared to static application alone. We often will include passive motion, active motion, and strength exercises while the cups remain in place.
Our Advanced MFD Techniques
Who Benefits from Myofascial Decompression?
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Address muscle tension from high-intensity training, improve tissue recovery between WODs, and maintain mobility for complex movements.
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Release chronic tightness in calves, hamstrings, and IT bands while improving circulation for faster recovery.
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Improve shoulder and thoracic mobility crucial for swimming, throwing, and racquet sports.
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Break down scar tissue and adhesions while promoting healthy tissue remodeling.
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Restore normal joint mechanics following sprains, strains, or periods of immobilization.
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When other manual therapy techniques haven't fully resolved tissue restrictions, MFD offers a unique approach that often achieves breakthrough results.
Common Conditions We Treat
Chronic muscle tension and trigger points
IT band syndrome
Plantar fasciitis
Rotator cuff injuries
Tennis/golfer's elbow
Back pain and stiffness
Neck and shoulder tension
Hip flexor tightness
Hamstring strains
Achilles tendinopathy
Scar tissue and adhesions
Lymphatic congestion
Movement compensations
Post-exercise soreness and fatigue
What to Expect During Your Cup Therapy Session
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We evaluate your movement patterns and identify areas of restriction to develop a targeted treatment approach.
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Specialized cups are applied using controlled suction. Many of the cups we used are curved in nature. You'll feel a pulling sensation that should be tolerable
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Depending on your condition, we may have you perform specific movements while the cups are in place to enhance the treatment effect.
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Cups are typically left on for 5-8minutes. After removal, we often follow up with other manual techniques or exercises to integrate the changes. We often recommend clients to load the tissues worked for the best results.
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You may have circular marks that last 3-7 days. We'll discuss mark management and what to expect.
Safety & Considerations
Joint manipulation and mobilization are extremely safe when performed by trained professionals. At Summit Physio & Performance, our Doctors of Physical Therapy:
Complete thorough screening to ensure techniques are appropriate for your condition
Use the minimal force necessary to achieve results
Modify techniques based on your comfort level and medical history
Explain each technique before performing it
Always obtain your consent before treatment
We'll also identify any contraindications and choose alternative approaches when necessary to ensure your safety.
MFD for Recovery Sessions
Myofascial Decompression is an excellent recovery tool for athletes, especially:
Post-Competition Recovery
After CrossFit competitions, races, or intense training blocks, MFD helps accelerate recovery by improving circulation and reducing muscle tension.
Maintenance Care
Regular MFD sessions can prevent restrictions from developing and maintain optimal tissue quality during heavy training periods.
Pre-Competition Preparation
Strategic MFD treatment before events can improve mobility and tissue readiness for peak performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does cuptherapy hurt?
You'll feel a pulling or stretching sensation that should be tolerable, but can be intense. We always adjust the suction level to your tolerance.
What are the marks and how long do they last?
The circular marks are a normal therapeutic response, not bruises. They typically fade within 3-7 days and indicate areas where circulation was improved.
How is this different from traditional cupping?
We combine cuptherapy with movement and integrate it with other manual and other therapeutic techniques. This active approach produces superior results compared to static cupping alone.
Can I workout after treatment?
Movement is encouraged after MFD. We'll provide specific recommendations based on your treatment and training schedule. You may be sore post MFD, but the effects should not limit ability to exercise.
How many sessions will I need?
Many people feel immediate improvement, with significant changes typically occurring within 1-4 sessions. We'll develop a plan based on your specific needs and goals.
Is MFD safe?
When performed by trained professionals, MFD is very safe. We screen for contraindications and modify our approach based on your health history.
The Summit Physio Difference
Movement-Based Approach
We don't just apply cups and leave you static,we integrate movement to maximize results and ensure functional improvements.
Comprehensive Treatment
MFD is often combined with other techniques like dry needling, IASTM (scraping), and corrective exercise for optimal outcomes.
Sport-Specific Application
We tailor cup placement and movement patterns to your specific sport or activity demands.
Education and Empowerment
You'll understand why we're using MFD and how it fits into your overall treatment plan and performance goals.
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Ready to Experience the Lifting Difference?
Discover how Myofascial Decompression can elevate your performance and recovery. Our expert team at Summit Physio & Performance is ready to help you overcome restrictions and achieve your movement goals.
