What is cupping?

Cupping Therapy is an ancient Chinese method that uses cups to create a suction on the skin. 

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine theory, Cupping therapy can improve flow in the 'Meridians' of the body. Modern scientific research found that cupping can cause tissues to release built up accumulations, improving the lymphatic system, veins, arteries and capillaries, activate the skin, improve scars and decrease stretch marks. Cupping has also been found to affect the body up to four inches into the tissues, decreasing muscle tension and blood flow to deeper tissues of the abdomen and chest to relieve constipation, period pains, and pneumonia. 

 

What does it feel like?

Cupping feels like a deep tissue relaxing massage though instead of the tissues being pushed down they are drawn up. The cup is left in place on the skin for a few minutes or oil may be applied to enable the cup to be slid along the entire region. 

  "It feels a bit strange," many patient say. "Definitely doesn't hurt. It just feels like someone's pulling at your skin."

 

What about Side Effects/Risks? 

A frequent side effect is cupping marks, these round circular bruises are temporary and can last several days.  If the marks are a concern, then the cupping can be performed lighter, or do without. The whole process should be comfortable and energizing to the person being cupped.  there are techniques to control the amount of suction and should not try to create a suction so much that makes it uncomfortable. If the marks are a concern, then the cupping can be performed lighter. 

There are very few conditions in which cupping should not be used, such as high fever, skin disease or tendency to bleed easily.

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Cupping has been part of Chinese medicine for over 2,500 years. Originally, animal horn was the original cup. Later on brass, ceramic, bamboo cups were used. Although it is an ancient treatment, it is growing in popularity as many people are finding ways to use cupping  to address their own health concerns.