Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Cupping is an ancient medical procedure. It relies upon creating a localized suction vacuum with fire or a device to mobilize blood flow. This blood flow thereby aids in the drainage of the lymphatic system. By stimulating the lymphatic system you’re giving the fluid that builds up between the muscle and skin more mobility to move outside the body. Not only does it move the blood through the veins, arteries, and capillaries, but also clears it. We use this form of therapy for many ailments. Some of these include sore muscles, tension, and clearing colon blockages. As well as, reducing stretch marks, improving the appearance of varicose veins, pain, discomfort, and aiding in blood circulation.
7 Reasons to Prioritize cupping treatments:
Cupping is proven to increase blood circulation, which delivers more oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles.
Relieves muscular pain and tension, which helps tight and uncomfortable areas feel looser and more relaxed.
Increases muscle recovery speed, supporting fast recovery after workouts, stress, or physical strain.
Promotes relaxation helping calm the body and reduce physical stress.
Reduces anxiety encouraging a calmer, more settled feeling.
Encourages tissues to release toxins, supporting the body’s natural waste-removal process.
Improves the immune system function, supporting the body’s natural defenses and overall wellness.
Types of jars used for cupping Therapy
Glass cups – Glass jars are primarily used for fire cupping. Because of their transparency, it is easier to control the treatment
Bamboo jars – Bamboo jars are primarily formed by a cylinder-shaped drum. The bamboo jars are not only light but very economical, so they are used more in foreign countries than here in the US
Silicon cups – These cups are used with a vacuum to suck the air out of the cup and can be used by manual therapists as well. Whereas fire cupping can only be done by a trained and certified practitioner
Who Shouldn’t Get Cupping Treatments?
Elderly patients on steroids as the medication makes the skin paper thin and more susceptible to bleeding underneath it
Anyone on anticoagulants
Patients with skin ulcers, burns, or blisters
Edema
Overlying large blood vessels
High fever
Convulsions
Abdominal & sacral region of a pregnant women
Patients susceptible to spontaneous bleeding
Caution with diabetics
*If you fall into any of these categories please notify and consult your cupping physician here at Eastern Acupuncture And Wellness before treatment.
Benefits of Cupping Treatment
Cupping can be used in a stationary manner or moving. The benefits of moving to cup are that it treats digestion, congestion, and inflammation. The physician or therapist will apply a lubricant such as oil or lotion. Once this is done, they’ll move the cups towards your lymph glands which expels the buildup of waste and toxins. This is primarily done on the back but can be done on the limbs as well if it’s indicated. Whereas stationary cupping is when the cups are placed along the back, neck, or shoulders and left for a short period of time bringing the qi and blood to that area to promote healing and unblock our channels.
It’s important to be aware that cupping can leave behind some marks. With moving cupping, it is common to have red or purple marks left on the surface as blood is brought to the area. Whereas with stationary cupping round marks that may resemble bruises might appear depending on the severity of the stagnation in the body. These are pain free and can last from 3 to 7 days.