So what is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping Therapy is a widely used therapy in traditional Chinese medicine, and it is well acknowledged. Traditional Chinese medicine stands out as the primary therapeutic method that introduced the benefits of Cupping to the globe. Cupping therapy has been used in China and other parts of the world for hundreds of years. Currently, many nations provide their own version of the therapy above, which includes various methods and cupping therapy sets, and whilst there are a number of variants, the most commonly used is wet or dry cupping. Fire cupping is also very popular.
The Benefits of Cupping Therapy Principle
Cupping Therapy is an ancient therapy in which a cup is placed on the skin, and negative pressure is given to the cup. Within the cup, a vacuum is created which then suctions the skin tissue and superficial muscles. Fundamentally, this type of therapy necessitates using a cupping set consisting of glass, bamboo, or silicone cups, depending on the practitioner’s approach. Benefits of Cupping Therapy is used to treat specific acupuncture points as well as pain-affected regions of the body. Cupping Therapy puts a stronger emphasis on back acupuncture sites due to the simplicity in which it may be performed on the back. It is based on the body’s meridian theory.
The dazhui and back shu points are used by the majority of experts. This stimulates the skin and muscles. On the other hand, cupping removes any type of stagnation in the body and opens the meridians, allowing qi energy to circulate freely. It is commonly believed to be able to relieve muscle tension, promote cell repair and aid in other regeneration.
Cupping Techniques
Cupping Therapy sets, such as glass cups of various sizes, are frequently used for cupping, especially in fire cupping.
Cups made of silicone or bamboo can also be utilised. These cups are frequently equipped with a valve that links to a tiny hand-operated pump, allowing the practitioner to take out air without fire. Furthermore, it gives them more control over the degree of suction power. Massage oil is often used to let the cups move more easily on the skin. Oils infused with high quantities of medicinal botanical ingredients are very helpful. When the cups are used at room temperature, friction is created due to the movement of the cups, resulting in a mild but significant amount of heat, especially if a warming oil is also used.
Once the suction has been created, the cups may be gently moved over the skin. The suction within the cups enables the skin and superficial muscle layer to be softly pulled into the cup, resulting in a type of inverse massage.
Most people remark that it is very relaxing and not at all uncomfortable. It does however leave marks on the skin where blood and toxins are pulled to the surface and looks similar to a bruise. This can last from a few days to ten days and is nothing to worry about.
Contraindications and Indications
Benefits of Cupping Therapy is typically used with traditional acupuncture in a single treatment session; however, it can also be performed as a standalone therapy at the clinic or at home. The suction and negative pressure created by the practitioner’s cupping set may readily relax muscles, promote blood flow, and calm nerves.
Benefits of Cupping Therapy are commonly used to treat pain, gastrointestinal disorders, lung diseases, and other health issues.
Before reacting to its benefits, it is essential to note that you must select a competent massage therapist when opting to undergo therapy, especially when having fire cupping or any form of wet cupping where the skin may be broken.
Although several commercials in the market today encourage you to do it yourself with a readily accessible cupping set, you must remember that proper knowledge of the technique is essential. Otherwise, instead of bringing relief to the body, it may induce unanticipated pain or bruising or even more significant physical harm. Cupping, however when done correctly, is extremely safe and beneficial to your overall health.
Do not undertake this if you are / or have, pregnant, dislocated joints, muscle dystrophy, severe anaemia, bleedings disorders, fractured bone, open wounds, ulcers, dry or cracked skin, or on children.
This post is for information and entertainment only and does not replace medical advice or treatment from a trained healthcare professional.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6435947/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30855841/
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