The Healing Art of Cupping Therapy
As an Acupuncturist I use Cupping therapy in my practice almost daily. It is an ancient healing technique that has been used for thousands of years to promote circulation, relieve pain, and support overall well-being. This practice involves using small glass, bamboo, or plastic cups as suction devices that are placed on the skin.
How Does it Work?
There are several methods used to create suction within the cups. One traditional technique involves swabbing rubbing alcohol inside the glass cup, lighting it, and then quickly placing the cup against the skin. The heat creates a vacuum effect, gently pulling the skin upward. It’s important to note that flames are never used directly on the skin; they simply help create the necessary suction. In my practice I mostly use plastic cups either using a hand pump or pressing the center of a soft plastic cup to get suction. I use plastic cups more often because I have found that I have more control over how tight to make the cup and can access locations that are not so easy with glass. Glass cupping is very exciting though and many patients do request it.
Benefits of Cupping
It really helps relieve pain! However the magic is in how it moves Qi. I use gentle cupping in my practice with kids all the time to help increase blood flow to an area. Such as the digestive region on the back. This helps encourage Stomach and Spleen energy to be more balanced. Either by increasing blood flow to decrease dampness and phlegm in a slow digestion and increase metabolism or bring circulation to support energy. We know that a strong gut means a strong immune system and brain.
I also use cupping for injury recovery. Shoulders, low back and hips love cupping. Yesterday a patient hurt his back lifting boxes a few days prior and the whole right back went into spasm. I gently cupped to help reduce inflammation and also relax the muscles and tendons. He had immediate relief and was able to stand up more easily after the treatment.
Asthma and Bronchitis! Cupping is particularly beneficial for respiratory health, helping to clear congestion caused by colds or aid in managing conditions like asthma. In fact, respiratory ailments are among the most common conditions treated with cupping. So if you are coughing a lot or can’t seem to get over a cough cupping is very helpful.
Dancing with an Octopus
People are often curious why marks are sometimes left with cupping and whereas it looks like it should hurt it doesn’t! Some call it bruising, but it is NOT an actual bruise, it is a different mechanism. Yes tiny blood vessels have been affected, but the marks that come with Cupping are due to suction not an impact trauma. I tell my patients that for some people it may look like you have been dancing with an octopus and round marks will be left on your back, and they will resolve in a few days. The depth of color actually tells me a lot about what is going for the person. For example:
Dark Purple marks can indicate what we call blood stagnation, which may be caused by a long-term injury or illness. Pain most commonly but not always, means blood stagnation in acupuncture.
Bright Red marks can indicate a recent injury. Not much time has passed for inflammation to settle and create more chronic pain so the marks will not be as dark.
Light-colored marks can indicate improved circulation, drainage, and detoxification.
No marks or light pink marks can indicate a lack of blood flow to the area and what we would term as deficiency.
Pain can be due to excess or deficiency and is treated differently.
Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, improved circulation, or respiratory support, cupping therapy offers a gentle yet effective approach to healing.
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If you’re curious about how cupping can support your health, reach out to schedule a session and experience the benefits firsthand.
Wishing you well,
Shannon