What is Cupping? And why do I use it ALL the time?

Cupping is a healing modality that has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries.
It is a Chinese massage or tuina technique that is frequently used during an acupuncture treatment.

The mechanism behind cupping involves creating a deep suction effect with the skin and the underlying tissues. Usually, this involves dipping a cotton ball in 90% proof alcohol, lighting the cotton ball on fire and sticking this in the cup to rob the cup of any oxygen. This is then placed immediately on the skin to create the suction. Cups are typically left on the skin for 10 minutes. Placing cups on the skin and removing right away and repeating this is known as 'Flash' cupping. Applying a lotion or cream base prior to cupping and moving on the skin is known as 'Slide' cupping.

The suction and pressure of the cups is excellent to help:

-relieve musculoskeletal pain
-relieve tension headaches & migraines
-improve immune function- flush out cough & colds faster
-release toxins
-help heal chronic repetitive strain injuries
-sedate the nervous system
-improve circulation

Glass or bamboo cups can be used with a flame inserted into the cup to rob the cup of any oxygen and therefore create the suction. Sometimes mechanical plastic cups are used with a pump to create a suction. The sensation almost feels like a massage from the inside out!
The marks left from cupping therapy resemble perfectly circular red or purple bruises that usually go away after three or four days. The longer the cups are left on the skin or the more stagnant blood; the darker the bruise. It is always a good idea to keep the cupped area covered or add heat post treatment to avoid muscles contracting.

Ask your Registered Acupuncturist about cupping and how it might benefit you!