What Is Cupping Therapy
As more people seek natural healthcare alternatives, ancient therapies are making their way into the mainstream. Cupping, used frequently by acupuncturists to enhance their treatments, is one such therapy.
Cupping is a method of treatment where cups are applied to the skin, creating a vacuum, so that suction can be applied to strategic areas of the body. This suction helps to break up congestion or stagnation, helping the muscles to relax, the fascia to release, phlegm to disperse, pain and swelling to diminish, and qi and blood to flow more freely along its channels.
Some common uses for cupping include:
Colds and Flu: In the transition months, with the fluctuating weather and temperatures, our immune systems become more vulnerable, leaving us more susceptible to colds and the flu. Cupping is used to break down mucus, ease coughs, address neck stiffness and chills, and disperse any lingering pathogens in the body allowing for faster recovery and decreasing the risk of relapse.
Allergies, Asthma and Bronchitis: With Spring right around the corner and the flower buds about to bloom, it is important to prepare ourselves to cope with the accompanying allergens. Cupping is used to address many disorders involving the lungs by unblocking the chest, decreasing accumulation of phlegm, and removing blockages that inhibit smooth breathing.
Musculoskeletal and Arthritic Pain: As we start to crawl out of our wintertime hibernation, the body craves more movement. Cupping helps to warm stiff muscles, address pain from traumatic injury and promote healing, reduce swelling and inflammation, and relieve pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
GI Disorders: A healthy digestion is fundamental to the overall health of our bodies. Cupping can be used in conjunction with your acupuncture treatments to address a range of gastro-intestinal disorders including abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, stomachaches, and indigestion.
Skin Disorders: More and more people are turning to Chinese medicine to address skin disorders that are complicated to treat. Cupping therapy, often in combination with herbal therapy, can be used in the treatment of challenging skin disorders including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
There are some points that need to be considered before the treatment as circulatory system issues or pregnancy, therefore its always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.
SARA