What are Rock pods?
Rock Pods are our version of cupping. They are medical-grade silicone cups that come in 4 sizes. The RockPods Regular set has 4 small and 4 medium cups/pods. The RockPods XL set has 3 large and 3 extra-large cups/pods. Both sets come in a convenient carry case, and the wholesale price is $66 for each set.
What are they designed to do?
Cupping creates a decompressive force in the tissues immediately under the cup (with a compressive force created around the rim of the cup). This lifting of the tissues can be a different stimulus for the tissues and the nervous system and, for some people, a relaxing way to treat tight or sore areas. The decompressive effect is greater than that of RockTape, but the two modalities are essentially treating in the same way. It is the opposite of many other forms of manual therapy that typically create a compressive force, such as massage, use of massage tools, floss bands and compression bandages.
What’s the difference between these and the glass ones?
Traditionally, cupping was done with glass cups. These are heated over a flame and then quickly applied to the body part to create the suction effect. More recently, cupping sets have become plastic cups with a one-way valve at the top, and a hand-operated vacuum pump generates the suction pressure. The reliance on the vacuum pump can be problematic in a clinic with multiple treatment rooms when trying to locate the pump! The Rock Pods utilise an “in-built” suction system- you can use the plunger on the top of the Pod to press down and generate a moderate level of suction, or the cup can be inverted on itself, placed over the target tissue and the edges of the cup “rolled” into contact with the skin- this creates a significantly higher level of suction. These two levels of suction allow the user to progress from a lighter to a greater suction force if necessary, while still allowing a lighter level of suction to be tried first. This is in keeping with our philosophy, “less is more”- start with “less”, and only progress to “more” if required.
The silicone pods are also easier to travel with, as they are unbreakable, eliminating the need to carry the vacuum pump and coming with a much more compact carrying case.
Do they slide or move after applying?
These cups do not slide well on the skin once they are applied. However, they are excellent at maintaining suction pressure whilst the client moves with the Pods in place.
How long do you keep them on for?
Typically, most Pods will be in place for only a few minutes at a time. The lower body (low back and legs) typically withstands longer application times, whereas the upper body (trunk, neck, and arms) may achieve an adequate treatment effect with shorter applications.
Will they leave a bruise?
Occasionally, a small circular bruise will be left where the Pod has been. This occurs less often in lower-body regions and with lighter suction pressure (plunger method). Bruising is not typically a treatment aim, but it may occur more readily in people who bruise easily. With this in mind, we recommend initially setting shorter application times for these people to test their tolerance to treatment with the Pods. Applying the Pods to the face/head region is much more likely to cause bruising and is generally not recommended.
Will they stick to body hair?
The Pods generally stick well to body hair, but if the body part has very thick, coarse hair, then a small amount of Rock Rub will usually help create the desired level of suction.
Can the RockPods be retailed to clients?
Yes, they can be retailed to clients and used for self-treatment.
Did you know that RockPods can be used in the shower?
This is a great tip for the time-poor person. The RockPods stick really well on wet skin, and having them on tight or sore spots while you shower is a great way to utilise the “internal glide” concept, because your movement in the shower does the work for you. However, beware of the combination of heat and strong suction on any areas (or people) that bruise easily. For example, the trunk and shoulders are areas where you might not want RockPods to remain in place for your entire shower. Consider leaving your RockPods next to your shampoo to help you develop good self-care habits.
Do you have any training on using the RockPods?
Yes, we have a 45-minute online course which costs $90.
The course outline is
- Introduction and background of cupping
- Application principles for RockPods
- RockPod techniques
- Examples of use with different areas of the body
- Using RockPods as a movement cue.
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