05/08/2025
Cupping VS Taping
Both k tape and cupping therapy are awesome tools in my bodywork “kit”.
They might look pretty different, however they actually share a lot in common.
Each one has its own unique way depending on the horse.
K tape is applied to gently lift the superficial layers of tissue. This helps create space between the skin and the underlying muscles and fascia, allowing for better blood flow, lymphatic drainage and neuromuscular communication.
I often use it over larger muscle groups like the glutes, or over areas of previous injury like old fascial tears, to give ongoing support between sessions and encourage correct muscle activation as they move.
Cupping, on the other hand, uses suction to physically lift and decompress the tissue underneath the cup. This is great for breaking up myofascial congestion, and it helps restore glide between the layers of tissue.
(I find cupping really helpful in more localised areas), where there might be pockets of tightness or trigger points.
Unlike deep pressure techniques, cupping gives the tissue a bit of breathing room and encourages the body’s natural healing without adding more compression.
So why would I pick one over the other?
Sometimes it is about what the tissue needs.
Taping gives longer lasting input that stays on for days, gently guiding the body to move in more efficient patterns.
Cupping is more of an intensive short term technique, used right there in the session to shift stuck tissue.
Other times, it comes down to the horse’s preference.
Some horses absolutely love the lifting sensation of cupping and visibly relax into it, and others find it a bit too intense and respond better to the tape.
Picture today of this girl who enjoys both cupping and taping- and had both today in different areas ❤️
