CUPPING
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WHAT IS CUPPING THERAPY?
Eastern and Middle Eastern cultures have relied on cupping therapy for thousands of years, but it seems to have become popular in the US after seeing famous Olympic athletes having it done. As the name suggests, “cupping” involves placing several cups over strategic points on the body. The resulting suction redirects circulation, allowing blood and other fluids to flow to areas in need of healing. The cups are moved over the skin with a combination of gliding, shaking, popping, and/or rotating techniques while pulling up on the cup. The cup may also be “parked” for a short time to facilitate joint mobilization or soft tissue release. Cupping can reach deep into soft tissue and has been reported to have a sedating effect on the nervous system. Another reported benefit is the pulling of inflammation and toxins from the body tissues so that the skin and lymphatic system can eliminate them. Scar tissue can also be released quickly, despite the age of the injury.
THE PURPOSE OF CUPPING THERAPY IS TO MOBILIZE:
- Soft tissue-fascia, muscle, tendons, and ligaments
- Stagnation of lymph, old blood and old debris, inflammation
- Joints
- Body Fluids
- Organs
CONDITIONS THAT RESPOND TO CUPPING THERAPY
- Athletic Stress and Injury, Post-Event
- Trigger Points effecting joint movement & causing pain
- Bursitis and Tendonitis
- Scars and Adhesions
- Muscular Aches
- Pre-and Post-Operative Conditions
- Edema: General & Post-Operative
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Pain · Arthritis
- Neuralgia
TREATMENT FREQUENCY
Cupping can be done once for simple conditions/issues or post-athletic exertion (see below) but typically best applied over 4-6 sessions for a cumulative effect for more stubborn/chronic conditions. Cupping is not a “one and done” treatment approach due to the gradual effect of the vacuum to release soft tissue.
POTENTIAL CONTRAINDICATIONS TO RECEIVING CUPPING
- Pregnancy
- Varicose Veins in region to be cupped
- Patients on blood thinners or who are diabetic
- Cannot be administered over the kidney’s or over loose bodies such as meniscus or herniated discs.
- Botox injections given to the face—you must wait 30 days to receive cupping to the face
POTENTIAL REACTIONS:
- Cup “Kiss” —discoloration due to toxins and old blood being brought to the surface-usually will dissipate after a few hours or few days. Post-Treatment
- Redness and Itching —increased vasodilation and/or inflammation brought to the surface.
- Decreased Blood Pressure —due to vasodilation and/or nervous system sedation
TREATMENT APPLICATION:
The most common misuse of cupping is overuse. Treatments to the same area are restricted to every 48 hours. Cupping is an option in the therapy setting to be used in combination with additional therapeutic applications chosen by your therapist.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M INTERESTED?
Heather is certified in Ace cupping techniques, but it’s always wise to consult your primary physician if you have reservations. The risk of adverse effects from cupping has proven to be low in numerous studies. But if you have excessive bruising issues or are on blood thinners, some cupping methods may not be right for you.