Cupping is a therapy that involves placing cups on the skin in a bid to create suction. It is an alternative Chinese therapy that is growing in popularity in relaxation spas and medical spas alike. The theory behind cupping is that it encourages physical healing through improved blood flow but that it also improves the “Qi”, or life force, of the body.
The suction produced during the cupping therapy method promotes increase blood flow, which in turn encourages healing, removes toxins, promotes cell repair, and also helps to relieve muscle tension. Many people also use cupping to complement their care when they are suffering from a host of ailments and conditions.
What to expect during a cupping therapy?
During a cupping therapy, a cup is heated and placed onto your skin; this creates a vacuum and a suction effect of your skin and back muscles. The cup is only kept on the skin for 5-10 minutes.
This therapy method is not painful and is reminiscent of placing your hand over a vacuum hose while the device is on. During a cupping treatment, it is normal for your skin under the cup to turn red as the blood vessels respond to the change in pressure. For many, the redness subsides within a few hours of the therapy treatment, while others with more sensitive skin see clearing within a few days.
What are the conditions that can be treated via cupping?
Cupping is particularly effective at easing conditions that result in muscle aches and pains; it has also been used to help with many other types of conditions. For example, cupping therapy can help provide benefit to those suffering with digestive problems and skin issues as well as other conditions that are commonly treated with acupuncture. This assertion can however be explained by the fact that the cups can be applied to major acupressure points.
According to results from 135 studies that were published via PLoS One in 2012, cupping therapy can also help with the following conditions;
- Facial Paralysis
- Herpes Zoster
- Cough And Dyspnea
- Lumbar Disc Herniation
- Cervical Spondylosis