What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy is an ancient form of healing that has been around for thousands of years. It involves placing cups (sometimes heated, sometimes not) on the skin.
Suction is created in the cups either by starting a minuscule fire in the cup (burning a small bit of alcohol or paper) and then placing it on your skin (the fire creates a vacuum) or by using a rubber pump to remove the air. The suction created by the cups is thought to increase blood flow and circulation.
The cups come in many forms and may be made of glass, silicone, or earthenware. Your skin will rise and redden in the cup and will be left that way for several minutes.
The types of cupping therapy used today include dry cupping, where a cup is placed on the skin and a vacuum created by the heat or by a pump, and wet cupping, where small incisions are made in the skin and cups are then applied to the area.
If silicone cups are used, they may be moved around by the therapist, which acts as a sort of massage and can be soothing and relaxing.
For wet cupping, antibiotic creams or ointments are applied after the session, and a bandage is applied to prevent infection. Some practitioners also offer needle cupping, where an acupuncture needle is inserted into the skin before a cup is placed over it.
How Cupping Therapy Helps Your Body
When the cups are applied to the skin, they can create a sensation of tightness or pressure. This is thought to help relieve muscle tension and pain.
Cupping therapy may also be used to treat other conditions such as:
● Headaches/migraines
● Arthritis/fibromyalgia
● Anxiety/depression
● Asthma/allergies
● Varicose veins
● Acne/eczema
● High blood pressure
● Fertility issues
Cupping therapy should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, but there are few — if any — potential negative side effects from cupping.
While you might feel some mild discomfort and have some bruising, this will go away very quickly. Cupping is extremely safe.
To learn more about the benefits of cupping therapy and to see if it’s right for you, schedule an appointment today.