The following information is based on dry cupping and received from College of Acupuncture & Therapeutics

 

HOW DOES CUPPING WORK?

 

Plastic, silicone or glass cups are applied to the skin’s surface, and suction is applied via a pump to draw the skin up into the cup, creating a vacuum, and separating the layers of superficial fascia. This draws new blood to that area, removing stagnation, which is the main cause of pain, and other health issues.

The secret behind cupping is that it allows stuck energy (stagnation) to come out through the skin, promoting blood, Qi energy circulation, nourishing the muscles, joints, tissues, organs and releasing toxins that were stored deep in the body.

Cupping is recognized by the World Health Organization.

 

BENEFITS

 

Fascia: Cupping on the superficial fascia has a trickle down effect on deeper tissues and organs.

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Muscles/Bones/Joints: Cupping relieves stress that has built up in muscles relieving muscle tension, new blood supply is brought to that area, the new blood and separation of the fascial layers provides an increase in the range of motion. It’s effective for chronic joint problems, especially when due to weather changes (barometric pressure). Cupping increases the interstitial fluid movement through and around spinal joints, which helps decompress these joints, making it effective for back/rib pain. Chronic inflammation responds well to this treatment, as does hip and knee replacement pain.

 

Adhesions and scars: Cupping separates the tissue layers, draws fluid into the adhesion, allowing for more mobility and softening. Scar tissue often attaches to muscles, and tissues, causing pain in that area. For example, a C-Section scar may cause abdominal and/or low back pain.

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Lungs: Cupping over the lungs creates more space and fluid movement in and around the lungs, so it helps  respiratory conditions like colds, bronchitis, CF, and early stages of COPD.

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Nervous System: Similar to massage, cupping has a strong effect on the sensory nerves, helps sedate, effective for high blood pressure, diabetic neuropathy.

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Immune System: Useful in stimulating the immune system.

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Digestive System: Cupping over the digestive organs increases appetite, peristalsis, and stimulates digestive juices.

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Menstrual Cramps: Cupping will relieve cramping. If done prior to menstruation, cramping should not occur.

These are some of the major benefits of cupping. It can be done also in conjunction with other treatments, like massage, acupuncture and reflexology. Usually the cups are left on for 2 to 15 min.

 

NOTE: Cupping Marks (Ecchymosis) ARE NOT Bruises. They caused by the release of dead static blood, lymph, cellular debris, pathogens and toxins that are brought to the surface of the skin. They are not painful ,and range from slight redness to dark purple. The marks usually last from 1 to 8 days.