What is Cupping Therapy?

The practice of cupping therapy has been employed as a form of alternative medicine in various cultures across the world for millennia. It involves placing cups on the skin, usually made of glass, bamboo, or silicone, and creating suction to create a vacuum effect. The suction promotes healing by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and releasing muscle and fascia tension.

Different Types of Cupping Therapy

Depending on the condition, the cupping method has different ways.

Fixed Cupping

In this method, the experts fix cups to the body and allow them to stay for some time. The application may be through pump, suction, or fire cups. These cups stay fixed during the treatment and aim at the release of local tissue. The concentration of the cups stays local, allowing the connective tissue to stretch fully. Local tension and pain are the symptoms to which this method applies.

Dry Cupping

In the dry cupping method, the experts apply plastic suction cups or a little lotion to the dry skin. The lotion allows the suction cup to glide over the affected area, offering deep tissue massage. Once the cups are removed, they may leave red circular areas corresponding to the diameter behind them.

Wet Cupping

Wet cupping is a method in which the specialists puncture the skin to draw blood before placing the cups. Usually, about three to five cups are common during the first session. Once the therapy finishes, antibiotic ointment and a bandage help prevent infection. The skin must return to normal within about ten days.

Flash Cupping

In this method, cups are applied and removed immediately, and the procedure repeats over a broad area. It helps stimulate local circulation.

The level of cupping includes medium, strong, and weak. The weak cups are used for older people and young children and lightly move the blood and fluids. The weak cups may not reduce stasis or congestion in the surrounding tissues. People with slightly higher strength are more appropriate for medium cups. The cups stay for a short period to remove congestion and improve circulation. People with a high energy level are to be chosen for strong cups. In this method, the cups must stay for a short time and are used for chronic localized stasis.

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

The major benefits of cupping therapy are as follows:

1. Fast and effective pain relief: Cupping therapy can provide fast and effective pain relief for individuals experiencing chronic pain, muscle tension, and arthritis. As a form of myofascial release, cupping can help to loosen tight muscles and increase circulation to the affected area. Physiotherapists may use cupping therapy as complementary to other manual therapy techniques, such as massage or joint mobilization, to help alleviate pain.
2. Treats lung diseases: Cupping therapy has been utilized as a complementary treatment to address respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough. Physiotherapists may incorporate cupping into breathing exercises to help improve lung function and alleviate symptoms of respiratory distress.
3. Relief from digestive problems: Physiotherapists may use cupping therapy to address digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Cupping therapy can help to stimulate the digestive system and reduce stress on the gut, leading to improved digestion and relief from discomfort.
4. Healthy skin: Cupping therapy can promote healthy skin by improving circulation and oxygenation to the skin's surface. Physiotherapists may use cupping therapy to treat skin conditions such as acne or cellulite and promote overall skin health.
5. Relief from chronic fatigue: Cupping therapy can effectively address chronic fatigue by promoting relaxation and improving blood flow to the affected areas. As part of a comprehensive physiotherapy treatment plan, cupping therapy may help individuals experiencing chronic fatigue feel more energized and rejuvenated.
6. Treats urinary problems: Physiotherapists may use cupping therapy to treat urinary problems such as urinary retention or bladder dysfunction. By improving circulation to the urinary system, cupping therapy can help to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
7. Fast healing: Cupping therapy can promote rapid healing by increasing blood and energy flow to the affected area. Physiotherapists may use cupping therapy with other modalities, such as exercise or manual therapy, to accelerate the healing process.
8. Relaxation: Cupping therapy can promote peace and reduce stress by helping to release muscle tension and promote a sense of well-being. Physiotherapists may use cupping therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to promote relaxation and reduce stress in their patients.

How Cupping Therapy is Performed

During a cupping therapy session, the cups are placed on your skin, and suction is created using various methods, such as a hand pump, a flame, or a vacuum machine. The cups are typically left in place for several minutes and may be moved around to target different areas of the body. After the cups are removed, the skin may be left with circular marks or bruises, typically fading within a few days.

Cupping therapy contraindications

Cupping therapy is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and trained practitioner. However, there are some circumstances where cupping therapy may not suit certain individuals. These contraindications include:

• Skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis in the area to be treated
• Open wounds, cuts, or burns on the skin
• Blood clotting disorders or the use of blood-thinning medications
• Pregnancy or menstruation (cupping should not be performed on the lower back or abdomen during these times)
• Varicose veins or other vascular disorders
• Severe medical conditions such as cancer or organ failure

Individuals deciding whether cupping therapy is appropriate for their health should consult a qualified healthcare provider before treatment.

What to Expect During a Cupping Therapy Session

During a cupping therapy session, you can expect to feel a sensation of suction or pressure on the skin, which may be mildly uncomfortable or relaxing. The cups may be left in place for several minutes or moved around to target different areas of the body. After the session, you may experience temporary bruising or skin marks, which should fade within a few days.

Explore the Benefits of Cupping Therapy with Physiotattva

Cupping therapy has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. While there is limited scientific research on its effectiveness, many people report experiencing pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved relaxation after treatment.

If you're interested in cupping therapy, seek a qualified and experienced therapist and discuss any concerns or medical conditions beforehand. While it may not suit everyone, cupping therapy can be valuable for managing chronic pain and improving overall health and well-being. So why not try it and see if it works for you?