Cupping Therapy

Relax and refresh your mind and body

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is a traditional healing practice that uses negative pressure to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. The technique involves heating the air inside cups made from materials such as glass, bamboo, or silicone, and then placing these cups on the skin. This creates a vacuum effect that draws the skin and underlying tissues into the cup, potentially enhancing local blood circulation, reducing muscle tension, and promoting relaxation.

Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, cupping therapy is believed to influence the flow of Qi (vital energy) and support overall physiological function. At our clinic, cupping therapy is often combined with other modalities, such as acupuncture or herbal medicine, to provide a comprehensive and holistic therapeutic approach.

How is Cupping Therapy Performed?

Cupping therapy involves the following key steps:

Preparation: Before starting the therapy, a cream or herbal oil may be applied to your skin to facilitate the process.
Creating the Vacuum: The practitioner uses an alcohol-soaked cotton ball, ignites it, and then briefly places it inside the cup. The flame is quickly extinguished as the cup is positioned upside down on your skin. As the air inside the cup cools, it creates a vacuum effect, causing your skin to rise and redden. The cup is generally left in place for up to 3 minutes.
Alternative Methods: Instead of using fire, a rubber pump may be employed to create the vacuum. Additionally, glass or silicone cups may be used and moved around on your skin to provide a massage-like effect.
Session Details: Typically, 3-5 cups are used during the initial session, though starting with just one cup is also an option to gauge your response.
Post-Treatment Effects: Cupping often leaves red marks or bruising on the skin, which are caused by increased blood flow to the area. These marks usually fade within a few days to two weeks.

What Health Conditions Can Cupping Therapy Help With?

Cupping therapy can be beneficial for a variety of health conditions. In our clinic, we frequently use cupping to assist with managing symptoms associated with the following conditions:

Chronic Cough and Asthma: Helps to alleviate respiratory symptoms and improve breathing.
Body Weight Control: May support weight management efforts by boosting metabolism and reducing fat.
Stress and Insomnia: Aids in relaxation and improves sleep quality by reducing stress.
Chronic Pain: Effective for relieving chronic neck, shoulder, and lower back pain.

What Health Risks May Be Associated with Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy may leave temporary marks or bruises on the skin, which are normal and typically last for a few days. While mild bruising is expected, our practitioners take care to minimize severe bruising by carefully regulating the suction intensity and duration of the cups.

Cupping is generally safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. However, certain conditions may contraindicate its use. Please inform your practitioner if any of the following apply to you:

Recent Surgeries: Avoid cupping if you have had recent surgeries.
Pregnancy: Cupping is not recommended for pregnant women, especially on the abdominal or lower back areas.
Infected or Scarred Areas: Do not undergo cupping on areas with infections or significant scarring.
Fluid Retention: Individuals with edema or ascites should avoid cupping.
Bleeding Disorders: If you have bleeding disorders such as hemophilia or are on strong blood thinners, cupping is not advisable.
Seizure Disorders: Cupping is not recommended for individuals with frequent seizures.
Extreme Hunger or Overeating: It is best to avoid cupping if you are extremely hungry or have recently overeaten.
Over-Fatigued, Frail, or Weak: Cupping may not be suitable if you are extremely tired, frail, or weak.

By disclosing any of these conditions, you help ensure a safe and effective cupping experience.

Note: This information is NOT intended to replace medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical or health care practitioner.