What is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping therapy has a long and diverse history that spans thousands of years and multiple cultures. As one of the oldest forms of medical treatment, cupping has evolved from its ancient origins to become a widely practiced therapeutic technique in both traditional and modern medicine.
Cupping is often used to address conditions such as muscle tension, pain, inflammation, respiratory issues, and even emotional stress. Cupping involves placing cups, typically made of glass, silicone, or plastic, on the skin and creating a vacuum or suction effect. The suction created by cupping stimulates the flow of Qi and blood within the body, promoting the circulation of energy and fluids, and helping to remove stagnation or blockages that may be causing pain or illness.
Conditions that benefit from cupping
Cupping therapy is known to benefit a wide range of conditions, particularly those related to pain, inflammation, and overall wellness.
- Muscle and Joint Pain: Back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, arthritis, frozen shoulder, tendonitis, muscle tension, and sports injuries.
- Respiratory Issues: Asthma, bronchitis, and common colds
- Migraines and Headaches: Chronic migraines, tension headaches.
- Digestive Disorders: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), constipation, and bloating.
- Stress and Anxiety: Chronic stress, anxiety, and fatigue.
- Immune System Support: Frequent colds, flu, and other infections.
- Menstrual Disorders: Dysmenorrhea (painful periods), irregular menstruation.
What are cupping marks?
Cupping marks are the circular discolorations that appear on the skin after a cupping therapy session. These marks are not bruises, they are a normal and expected outcome of the treatment.
The suction from the cups draws stagnant blood and cellular waste products from the deeper tissues up to the superficial layer where it can be flushed out of the body. The result is a visible mark on the skin, which can range in color from light pink to dark purple, depending on the intensity of the suction, the individual's skin type, and the health of the tissue being treated.
Cupping marks are both diagnostic and therapeutic. The color of the cupping marks can indicate the level of stagnation in the body. Darker marks are often associated with areas of greater stagnation or congestion, where blood and lymph flow have been sluggish. Lighter marks indicate less stagnation. The marks are considered a sign that the treatment is working to release blockages and improve circulation.
Cupping marks typically last anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the individual’s circulation and the depth of the treatment. Despite their appearance, cupping marks are generally not painful. They may feel similar to a mild soreness, like the feeling after a deep tissue massage.
Does cupping hurt?
Cupping can be adapted to meet the client’s needs and goals. Slide cupping feels similar to a massage. The therapist applies oil and uses a light suction while gliding the cups over a broad area, such as the back. This type of cupping is both therapeutic and relaxing. Static cupping is another form of cupping, where several cups are retained in place for 5-10 minutes. The amount of suction can be adjusted. Stronger suction may be uncomfortable, but usually results in the greatest therapeutic benefit. Your practitioner will work with you to select the appropriate style and amount of cupping that is right for you.
