Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy, an age-old alternative medicine technique, involves placing specialized cups on your skin for a short period, creating suction. People opt for this treatment for various reasons, such as easing pain, reducing inflammation, enhancing blood flow, promoting relaxation, and experiencing a form of deep-tissue massage.

Cups used in cupping therapy can be crafted from various materials like glass, bamboo, earthenware, or silicone. Despite its current trendiness, cupping is far from new; its roots extend back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. The practice is detailed in the Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest medical texts globally, showcasing its use in ancient Egyptian society as far back as 1,550 B.C.

Types of cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy encompasses various methods, two of which are:

• Dry cupping
• Wet cupping

In both approaches, the therapist ignites a flammable substance like alcohol, herbs, or paper inside a cup. After the flame extinguishes, the therapist places the cup upside down on your skin. As the air inside the cup cools, it creates a vacuum, causing your skin to lift and turn red because your blood vessels expand. This process typically lasts about 3 minutes.

A more modern method of cupping involves using a rubber pump instead of fire to make the vacuum inside the cup. Alternatively, therapists may use silicone cups, gliding them over your skin for a massage-like effect.

In wet cupping, a cup stays in place for approximately 3 minutes, creating gentle suction. The therapist then removes the cup and uses a small scalpel to make tiny cuts on your skin. Afterward, they apply a second suction to extract a small amount of blood.

During a session, you might encounter 3-5 cups initially, though some may choose just one to see how it feels. According to the British Cupping Society, having more than 5-7 cups in a session is uncommon.

Following the procedure, you might receive an antibiotic ointment and a bandage to avoid infection. Your skin should return to its normal appearance within about 10 days.

Supporters of cupping therapy believe that wet cupping eliminates harmful substances and toxins from the body to enhance healing. However, this claim lacks scientific proof.

Additionally, some individuals undergo “needle cupping,” where the therapist inserts acupuncture needles first and then places cups over them.

Scientific Research

Limited scientific studies have been conducted on cupping therapy. One report, published in 2015 in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, suggested potential benefits for acne, herpes zoster, and pain management. Similarly, a 2012 report in PLoS One, reviewing 135 studies, indicated that cupping therapy might be effective when combined with other treatments like acupuncture or medications for conditions such as herpes zoster, acne, facial paralysis, and cervical spondylosis.

However, the researchers noted potential biases in many of the reviewed studies and emphasized the need for better, more rigorous research.

The British Cupping Society claims that cupping is used to treat various conditions, including blood disorders, rheumatic diseases, fertility issues, skin problems, high blood pressure, migraines, anxiety, depression, bronchial congestion, and varicose veins. It’s essential to note that there is insufficient research to support all of these claims.

Side effects of cupping Therapy

Cupping is generally considered safe when performed by a trained health professional. However, there are potential side effects in the area where the cups touch your skin, including mild discomfort, burns, bruises, and the risk of a skin infection. Contamination of cups and equipment, coupled with improper sterilization, could lead to the spread of bloodborne diseases like hepatitis B and C if not handled correctly between patients.

Consulting your doctor

Before trying cupping or any alternative or complementary medicine, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor. Additionally, have a thorough discussion with your cupping therapist. Ask questions such as:

1. What conditions do you use cupping for?
2. What is your training in cupping?
3. How much experience do you have in using cupping?
4. Am I already receiving standard treatments for my condition?
5. Are there any reasons I should avoid or not undergo cupping?

Having this dialogue will help ensure that cupping is appropriate for your individual circumstances and that it complements your overall healthcare plan.