Cupping Therapy

Cupping Therapy session in progress. NC Massage Works is Serving Carrboro & Chapel Hill

Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This practice is rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) but has been adopted by various cultures worldwide over centuries. The cups used in cupping therapy can be made of various materials such as glass, bamboo, or silicone, and they create a vacuum effect on the skin.

The amcient form of cupping begins with a practitioner heating the air inside the cup to create a vacuum and then quickly placing it on the skin. We use modern techniques of application without heat. Once applied, the cups are left in place or may be moved around to different areas of the body.

Cupping is believed to have several therapeutic effects:

  1. Pain Relief: One of the most common reasons people seek cupping therapy is for pain relief. The suction from the cups is thought to increase blood flow to the treated area, which can help reduce muscle tension and promote healing.
  2. Inflammation Reduction: By improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, cupping may also help reduce inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial for conditions such as arthritis or certain types of chronic pain.
  3. Relaxation and Well-being: Many individuals report feeling relaxed and rejuvenated after a cupping session. The therapy is believed to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
  4. Detoxification: In traditional medicine systems, cupping is also used to help remove toxins from the body. While scientific evidence on this specific claim is limited, some proponents believe that the suction from the cups can draw toxins to the surface of the skin.

References:

  1. Ernst, E. (2018). Is cupping an effective treatment? An overview of systematic reviews. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medical Sciences, 5(3), 167-170.
  2. Cao, H., Li, X., Liu, J. (2012). An updated review of the efficacy of cupping therapy. PLOS One, 7(2), e31793.
  3. Mehta, P., Dhapte, V. (2015). Cupping therapy: A prudent remedy for a plethora of medical ailments. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 5(3), 127-134.