Cupping is a therapeutic technique that involves creating suction on the skin’s surface using specialized cups. This results in a localized area of raised and reddened skin due to the increased blood flow to the area.
The practice of cupping is ancient and has been used in traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern, and other holistic medicine systems for thousands of years. There are several different methods of cupping, including:
- Dry Cupping: In this traditional form of cupping, cups are placed on specific areas of the skin and left in place for several minutes. The suction created by the cups draws the skin and underlying tissues into the cup, promoting blood flow and often leaving circular marks on the skin that can last for a few days.
- Massage Cupping: This technique involves applying oil or lotion to the skin before placing the cups. The cups are then moved across the skin, creating a gentle suction that feels like a massage. This method is often used for relaxation and to address muscle tension.
The treatment is used for a variety of purposes, including:
• Promoting blood flow and reducing muscle tension.
• Relieving pain and inflammation in specific areas.
• Encouraging the body’s natural healing processes.
• Addressing respiratory conditions by loosening mucus and promoting lung health.
• Providing relaxation and stress relief.
Cupping is generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals. The marks left on the skin after cupping are typically not painful and gradually fade within a few days. While some people find cupping to be a beneficial type of treatment on its own, at ProHealth365, your therapist will usually recommend it where suitable as a complementary treatment in addition to other treatment forms used within physiotherapy such as exercises, advice, massage, and dry needling.