We also do this thing called “cupping.” We primarily use cupping for the purpose of decompression. In between the skin and the muscle, there is a thin layer connective tissue called fascia. Despite how thin (picture cling wrap) and seemingly insignificant it is, researchers are beginning to discover that it could be a major source of musculoskeletal pain for many people. In fact, one study found that fascia actually might be six times more sensitive than muscle tissue. Fascia can create adhesions that will sort of “glue” itself to the muscle or the skin, which can (and usually will) eventually cause pain. We use cups to “pull” and decompress certain areas where this may be occurring, which can result in significant and sometimes instantaneous pain relief.