Cupping is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been around for thousands of years. It is a term that refers to the placing of glass or bamboo suction cups on the skin. It can be thought of as the inverse of massage therapy because the skin, tissue and muscle is suctioned outward rather than being pressed down upon like during a massage. The purpose of cupping is to increase circulation, relieve pain, release heat and draw out toxins from the body.
The suction of the cup in created by lighting a flame within the cup (never near the skin), the flame is extinguished and the cup placed quickly onto the skin. You will feel a sensation at the sight of the cup which is similar to the pressure felt during a massage. It should feel soothing and releasing. Cups can be left to sit during the treatment on a particular area or oil may be applied to the skin and the cups will then glide along a larger area. Each treatment is unique to the client and what they need at the time of their visit.
What to expect after cupping?
The more toxins that release the darker the colour may be where the cups were used. This discolouration looks like bruising and can last anywhere from several days to a couple of weeks. This is completely normal.
What does cupping treat?
People mostly use cupping to relieve conditions that cause pain. Some people say it also helps with chronic (ongoing) health issues. Cupping may ease symptoms of:
- Arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis.
- ack pain, neck, knee pain and shoulder pain.
- Breathing problems, such as asthma.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
- Gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBD).
- Headaches and migraines.
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
