Cupping Near Me Now? Trust The Answer

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Cupping is all the rage these days, and celebrities and Olympic athletes are lining up for the privilege. I decided to try it myself to see if it hurts as much as it looks like it should. Share on Pinterest Cupping is ancient, but is it effective? If you’ve never heard of cupping, the premise is simple – small cups are attached to the skin by creating a vacuum underneath. This will suck the skin up into the cup. It’s that simple. You may have seen evidence of cupping on the backs of celebrities and athletes. The marks are essentially giant hickeys; It looks like they got going with a giant squid. And it looks a little sore. This is the second in a series of articles in which I try and report on unusual treatments. The first was being frozen to -80°C with my boss. I hoped this wouldn’t be quite so extreme.

What is the purpose of cupping? Cupping is used to treat pain, relieve scar tissue deep within muscles and connective tissue, and reduce swelling and muscle knots. Like many complementary treatments, cupping is designed to minimize circulating toxins by drawing them into the skin where they can be more easily removed. Although only recently made famous by celebrities, this treatment has an ancient pedigree that stretches back through the mists of time. According to traditional Chinese medicine, cupping improves the flow of qi (your vital force) and can help treat colds, bronchitis, and even pneumonia. Cupping was practiced as part of ancient Persian medicine; According to an article on traditional Persian medicine, cupping “evacuates morbid materials from the damaged organs.” The Ebers Papyrus, written more than 3,000 years ago, mentions that cupping was commonplace in Egypt at the time. In fact, cupping was even recommended by Mohammed. However, it’s important to remember that just because a practice has a long history doesn’t mean it does what it claims to do. I wanted to find out. I have a number of ongoing ailments that I was hoping to alleviate: I’ve had back pain for months, I have a cold that I just can’t shake, I’m pretty sure my qi is completely out of whack, and I could certainly remove morbid material from my compromised organs. However, I only have one session, so I can’t expect to be fully fixed; What interests me most is how it feels.

The Day Comes For today’s engagement, I was joined by one of our editors, who brought her camera to capture the drama. I’m a relatively nervous guy and I have to admit, as I approached the clinic my nerves started to get the best of me. My primary concern was that another of my Medical News Today colleagues would see me half-naked and in pain. As we approached, I noticed that the sign on the clinic’s door said “Closed.” My heart rose in my chest. But as we pressed our faces to the glass we were welcomed inside. There was no turning back. My therapist was charming and adept at cupping; She asked me what I hope to get out of the experience. I informed her about my lower back and she decided to start with a deep tissue massage followed by cupping. She explained that where she is from (Czech Republic) cupping is not such a strange idea. Whenever she had a cold, her grandmother would use a similar technique, using jam jars that “pulled the phlegm out of her lungs.” Recalling that the practice had been practiced across much of the world for thousands of years, I tried to relax into the experience. Alone in the darkened therapy room, I stripped down to my underwear and wondered what the next 60 minutes would bring. The therapist came into the room and the deep tissue massage began. I’ve only had one massage in my life and it’s been a long time. Turns out I like massages. I think I needed some tension to squeeze out of me. It was painful at times, yes, but I felt like I deserved it. I did my research before embarking on this mission and I learned that there are three main types of cupping: wet, fire and dry. In fire cupping, the vacuum that attaches the cup to the skin is created by…you guessed it…fire; a flaming cotton ball is usually used. With wet cupping, small incisions are made in the skin after a few minutes of cupping, the cups are then placed back on the skin so that blood is drawn. I have opted for dry cupping, which does not cause any fire or bleeding.

The cupping begins Then it was time for the cupping. We started with a simple rubber cup; She pinched the elastic and it was attached to my body. She pulled it up and down my back, still clinging tight to my skin. There was some associated pain in places, particularly near my neck, but nothing too extreme. It was a good pain. It felt cathartic, like it was doing something constructive under my skin. Share on Pinterest An unexpected flame. But after the plastic cupping was over, the therapist moved on to glass cups and…burning cotton. I wasn’t expecting a fire. With my head in the massage board, I couldn’t see the flame, but I could feel the heat. I winced and tensed up. I shouldn’t have bothered about it; it was painless. I breathed a sigh of relief, but I still tensed up every time I felt the heat against my skin. Each cup was first strapped to my lower back before being dragged to its resting place higher up – it was a bit sore, but it wasn’t as bad as the marks it left. It was a strange feeling. As my skin tightened under the cups, it felt like I was being hugged by a boxy but caring glass octopus.

Is there any scientific support for cupping? In two words – not really. It is generally accepted that most of the effects attributed to cupping are due to the placebo effect. However, a 2011 systematic review published in the Journal of Acupuncture & Meridian Studies offered a glimmer of hope. The researchers concluded: Share on Pinterest It looks pretty sore, doesn’t it? “[T]he effectiveness of cupping has only been demonstrated for the treatment of pain, and even for that indication doubts remain.” Better yet, a 2015 review of 75 randomized controlled trials with 11,077 participants gave more support. The paper, published in PLOS One, concludes that “cupping may be effective in the immediate management of pain and disability associated with [chronic neck pain] or [chronic low back pain].” A meta-analysis of 135 randomized controlled trials found potential benefits for a range of conditions, including herpes zoster, acne, facial palsy and cervical spondylosis (arthritis in the neck). However, the authors caution that many of the studies contained significant bias and that more research is needed. Perhaps the least scientific claim behind cupping is its ability to “detoxify.” Detoxification is a term that has become fashionable in the health and wellness space, but has no specific meaning. So when I asked one of our resident experts what she thought of the term in this context, she said, “Maybe detox is the wrong term. The vacuum created during cupping causes a localized expansion of the tissue. This facilitates a profound vasodilation response to increase perfusion/blood flow to painful narrowed areas. Increased blood flow improves oxygenation and cellular metabolism, thereby reducing inflammatory (or toxic) substances.” Raleigh Harrell, L.Ac. Evidence aside, these treatments are all about the experience, doctor’s attention, and endorphin boost, as well as medical outcomes. As the therapist explained, she does not claim to perform medical procedures; They’re just another way to address physical ailments that might work for some people. And if it’s good enough for Jennifer Aniston, it’s good enough for me.

The color of cupping Lovers of cupping claim that the color of the welts on the skin can tell something about the condition of your body and your injuries. This comes from an article by respected acupuncturist Susan Johnson, L.Ac.: “Problems related to toxin build-up or muscle spasms result in coloration of the skin under the cup, while problems with nerves or bones do not color at all.” […] A mild or moderate [energy] blockage will cause the skin under a cup to turn pink or red, and it takes a day or two for that color to fade. Severe stagnation can cause the skin to turn a deep scarlet, purple, or even black; It can take 7-10 days for the dark color to dissipate.” Interestingly, based on the color of my flesh as it was sucked into the cups, the therapist was able to correctly identify that the left side of my neck and the lower right side of my back were the most affected areas.

There is some evidence that cupping therapy may be beneficial for certain health conditions. However, research on cupping therapy tends to be of low quality. More studies are needed to understand how cupping therapy works, if it works, and in which situations it can help. Cupping therapy is a traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern practice used to treat a variety of conditions. It involves placing cups on specific spots on a person’s skin. A practitioner creates suction in the cups that pulls against the skin. Cupping can be either dry or wet. In wet cupping, the skin is punctured before suction begins, removing some of the person’s blood during the procedure. This type of cupping is less common in the United States, where practitioners must be licensed medical professionals. Cupping usually leaves round bruises on a person’s skin where blood vessels rupture after being exposed to the suction of the procedure.

Benefits A 2018 review provided a summary of the use of cupping. The review was limited to uses documented in research studies. According to this article, the different types of stimulation cupping can be the reason why it helps with a variety of conditions. However, the review also notes that there is not enough strong evidence to support this effectiveness. The benefits of cupping that the review authors cite include: Pain relief

muscle relaxation

improved blood flow

Activation of the immune system

release of toxins

Removal of waste and heavy metals

Does cupping therapy work? Scientists have linked cupping therapy to various health benefits. According to an analysis from 2017, the suction that occurs during cupping stimulates local blood circulation. This action also stimulates the body’s heme-oxygenase-1 (HO-1) system, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurotransmitter-regulating effects. Cupping also has connections to acupuncture points on a person’s body that are central to the practice of acupuncture. Many doctors consider cupping therapy to be a complementary therapy, meaning many don’t recognize it as part of Western medicine. However, this does not mean that it is not effective. Therapists sometimes use complementary treatments with supporting research in addition to Western medicine. However, as also noted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), there is not enough high-quality research to support cupping’s effectiveness. Scientists need to do more research to determine if it works as a treatment.

Applications According to the 2018 review, therapists may use cupping for the following conditions: Shingles

facial paralysis

Disc wear (cervical spondylosis)

high blood pressure

Prevention of cardiovascular diseases

Musculoskeletal Pain

Lower back pain

neck pain

fibromyalgia

carpal tunnel syndrome

headache

migraine

cellulite

Cough

cold

asthma

acne

urticaria

soft tissue injury

arthritis

Eczema therapists can also use cupping as a cosmetic technique to improve the appearance of facial skin. To achieve the benefits of cupping, practitioners apply the cupping jars to different parts of the body. This may or may not be at the site of pain. According to a 2015 paper, application sites can include: Back

neck

between the shoulders

behind the ear

middle and top of the head

chin

leg

knee joints

hocks

Breast

hips

buttocks

Wrists Research indicates that the most common application sites are the back, chest, abdomen, buttocks, and areas of the body with significant muscle mass.

Pain relief Cupping therapy is often mentioned as a method of pain relief. Although there is some evidence of its effectiveness, scientists need to do more high-quality studies to fully demonstrate it. A meta-analysis appearing in a 2018 review claims there may be evidence that cupping is effective in treating back pain. However, the researchers again note that most of the studies were of low quality and that more standardization is needed in future studies. A 2018 study came to a similar conclusion for the effectiveness of cupping for neck pain. Researchers note that better-quality studies are needed to determine if cupping therapy is effective.

Skin Conditions The 2018 report cited research showing that cupping therapy is effective in treating acne as well as herpes zoster (shingles) and associated pain. However, more rigorous, higher-quality studies are needed to verify the results.

Athletic Recovery Another 2017 review finds that professional athletes are increasingly using cupping therapy as part of their recovery practices. However, this review found no consistent evidence that cupping is effective for anything related to athletic recovery. The researchers made no recommendation for or against the practice and said more research is needed.

Side Effects and Risks According to the NCCIH, side effects of cupping can include: Persistent skin discoloration

scarring

burns

Infection If a person has a skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis, cupping can make it worse at the site where the doctor places the cups. According to a 2018 review on cupping, the therapy can also cause: Headaches

fatigue

dizziness

fainting

nausea

Insomnia Due to the poor quality of studies on cupping, it is difficult to know how common these side effects are. If a person experiences any of these side effects after cupping therapy, they should speak to a doctor. Some people may have health problems, such as B. Problems with blood clotting that make cupping unsuitable. Risks of Wet Cupping In cases where a person undergoes wet cupping, which is more common outside of the US, a person may experience internal bleeding or anemia if the doctor draws too much blood or if a person performs wet cupping frequently. Wet cupping also carries the risk of serious infections if practitioners don’t sterilize the devices between sessions.

How to do it at home There are many commercially available kits to help a person practice cupping at home. However, not everything on the market is necessarily safe or recommended for every person. Before a person starts cupping at home, they may want to talk to their doctor. It is also possible to take cupping courses at home from licensed providers such as acupuncturists. Before signing up, an individual may want to verify instructor credentials or seek recommendations from healthcare professionals, friends, or family. The NCCIH has tips for choosing a complementary medicine practitioner. This includes researching the doctor’s education and certifications and whether they work with conventional medical professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions Is it safe? Aside from the side effects and risks, cupping is generally safe. The NCCIH notes that there have been reports of serious side effects, such as B. Internal skull bleeding after scalp cupping and anemia from repeated wet cupping, but these are rare. In the US, only licensed medical professionals can perform wet cupping, and the procedure is not very common. However, wet cupping increases the risk of infection and blood-borne diseases such as hepatitis B and C if the doctor does not sterilize the cupping glasses between sessions. Before a wet cupping session, a person should ask about safety and sterilization practices. Is it painful? Side effects of dry cupping can include physical discomfort such as headaches and nausea. According to the 2018 overview, pain can also occur at the application site. Wet cupping involves shallow cuts in the skin followed by suction to draw blood. Like suction during dry cupping, this can cause pain in this area. However, as mentioned earlier, this type of cupping is not common in the United States. How long does it take to work? The time it takes to experience the benefits of cupping therapy is unknown and may depend on the specific condition. For example, the 2018 review suggested a possible protocol for low back pain of five sessions of dry cupping with a 3–7 day rest between sessions. It may therefore take multiple cupping sessions to find relief. Also, because the technique causes skin discoloration, it may take a few days for the skin to return to its pre-therapy appearance.

Targeted slimming massage with cupping

The cupping method increases the treatment performance and accelerates the slimming process.

How does this work?

When fat causes cellulite, it can harden over time in the form of lumps under the skin and cannot be easily removed with a massage.

Cupping therapy promotes weight loss and full body toning by stimulating acupuncture points and guiding them along the lymphatic system. These specific acupuncture points provide your circulatory system with the energy it needs to metabolize body fat, including the fat in your problem areas and the fat around your internal organs. More efficient circulation can facilitate the removal of toxins and excess water that are causing or adding to your weight problems.

In addition, the suction created helps to reach the deeper lying fat and separate it from the fibers. Once ruptured, it is liquefied and its entire waist is flushed out through the lymphatic system.

Are the results visible immediately?

Due to the improved lymph and blood circulation, you can feel immediate relief after the first session. Some people feel a bit sore the next day, like they’ve had an intense yoga session! After 5-6 sessions, the complexion becomes more even. After 7-10 sessions your skin is tighter and the stubborn fat has been eliminated. The number of sessions depends on the current situation of each individual as well as the hygiene of life. Some patients require fewer sessions, others more.

Targeted slimming massage programme

Therapists can dedicate each session to work on specific areas and rotate them until the treatment is complete.

Benefits of the slimming massage program

Shape your stomach, back, thighs, arms and other problem areas

Reduce cellulite all over your body while tightening your skin

stimulate blood flow

Increased energy level

Surface fat forms on the surface of the abdomen, buttocks, thighs and other problem areas. This type of fat also causes cellulite, which occurs when clumps of fat under the skin harden over time. Visceral fat forms in your abdomen and can be found around internal organs like the liver, stomach, and intestines.

Cupping is a traditional treatment that is safe, convenient, and effective for many health conditions. The gentle suction created by cupping loosens and lifts connective tissue, increasing blood and lymph flow to your skin and muscles. Proper cupping care is important to get the most benefit from cupping. It is important that you follow these guidelines.

What to do after cupping or a cupping massage:

Drink much water.

Water helps rid your lymphatic system of the cellular waste that is released from your tissues by cupping. stay warm

Try to cover the areas where you received cupping. Rest.

You may feel more tired than usual after cupping or have flu-like symptoms (headache or general body aches). This is a temporary response by your immune system to the cellular waste released by cupping.

Schedule your next cupping appointment in downtown Madison with a certified, licensed practitioner. www.resolution.health/cupping

What you should avoid after cupping or a cupping massage:

For 4-6 hours after cupping, avoid contact with:

Caffeine, alcohol, sugary foods and drinks, dairy and processed meats

These foods slow down your body’s ability to process the treatment. Hot showers, saunas, jacuzzis and powerful air conditioning

After cupping, your skin will become more temperature sensitive in the areas where the cupping glasses were placed. Give your skin time to recover. If possible, shower with filtered water to avoid getting unnecessary chemicals back on your skin. Intense training Cold and windy conditions.

How to prepare for cupping or cupping massage:

Hydrate. Water is important to your health, especially your lymphatic system. Cupping supports your lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system removes cellular waste from your body, and it needs a lot of water to do it effectively. Eat about an hour before your appointment. Do not shave the area within four hours of your appointment. Your therapist doesn’t mind stubble, and your skin will thank you. Recover from a sunburn. If you get cupping, it will feel like that area is warmer than normal. Neither the cup nor the extra warmth feels good on sunburned skin. Apply some soothing aloe and wait for your skin to recover before heading to your next cupping appointment. Don’t peel aggressively. The scrub removes a layer of dead skin that makes your skin extra sensitive. Wait a few days after aggressive peeling treatment before getting cupping.

This is how the cupping marks disappear faster:

After cupping, your skin will have circular marks that range in color from pink to deep red or purple. People may joke that you look like you had a fight with an octopus. Wear these badges proudly! You are doing something great for your body.

Discolorations from cupping fade. Some may fade after a few hours, while others may take up to two weeks to disappear completely. The discoloration is related to the health of your body at the time of cupping.

If you want those spots to go away faster, do two things: hydrate and rest.

Everyone’s body responds differently to cupping, even when these cupping aftercare guidelines are followed. If you have any questions before or after a cupping appointment, please call us to speak with a licensed therapist.

Resolution Health Collaborative in Madison, Wisconsin

(608) 443-7048

Cupping is a safe, traditional treatment that helps relieve chronic muscle tension and pain faster than massage therapy alone.

From Olympic athletes to pregnant pop stars, people are rediscovering the benefits of cupping. You might even have seen people with those telltale red circles on their backs and shoulders at your gym or swimming pool. It is becoming increasingly common for people to request cupping to relieve chronic muscle soreness. But did you know that cupping can be used for many other ailments?

Cupping increases blood flow

The suction of the cups increases circulation in the area where the cups are placed. The extra blood flow to this area can help relieve muscle tension and promote cell repair. Increasing blood flow through cupping also helps reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Cupping stimulates the tissue to release toxins

Yes, you have organs that remove toxins from your blood. But modern lifestyle overloads your body with toxins. Cupping gives your body a boost in releasing these toxins. A concentrated flow of blood helps your body by flushing accumulated toxins through the lymphatic system. (Your lymphatic system is responsible for removing toxins and waste from your body.)

Planning to be in downtown Madison? Book a cupping massage and see the benefits for yourself.

Cupping reduces anxiety

As your therapist slides the cups over your skin, your parasympathetic nervous system activates. This promotes deep relaxation moving through your entire body. (Your parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for slowing your heart rate, aiding in digestion, and increasing gut and glandular activity.)

Cupping can reduce stretch marks and scars

Increased blood flow allows your body to eliminate toxins, restores lymphatic circulation and helps remove edema (excess fluid), reducing the appearance of scars. Studies have shown the positive effects of cupping on stretch marks and scars even in areas far from where the cupping lenses are applied.

Cupping can improve varicose veins and spider veins

Varicose veins look like bulging, bluish veins just under the skin, usually on the legs and feet. They occur when the valves in the veins aren’t working properly — the valves don’t effectively push blood back from the muscle to the heart, causing the blood to pool and causing the veins to twist and bulge. Cupping helps by bringing fresh blood flow and oxygen back to the problem areas. You will notice that your varicose veins will appear lighter after your first session, although it takes a number of cupping sessions to see lasting results. (Note: Only dry cupping, not wet, is recommended to treat varicose veins. At Resolution Health, we only practice dry cupping.)

Cupping can clear congestion and help treat asthma

Constipation (the accumulation of fluid or mucus in the lungs) caused by a cold, bronchitis, or even asthma can be treated with cupping. The suction of cups breaks up and dispels clogs. It brings oxygenated blood and lymph to your lungs and your other respiratory muscles. Cups are usually placed on the back but can also be placed on the chest. Your therapist may leave the cups in place or slide them gently in an upward motion to facilitate the movement of lymphatic fluid. Face cupping can also be used to relieve your sinuses.

Cupping can remove blockages in the colon and aid in digestion

Cupping helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which increases blood flow to the digestive tract. Gentle cupping over the abdomen also stimulates the inside of your digestive organs. It helps with peristalsis (contractions that push food through your digestive tract), helps clear colon blockages, promotes the movement of blood and body fluids through your organs, and helps with indigestion.

Wondering if cupping could work for you?

Call us or ask your therapist at your next massage session. Our therapists have been trained and certified in safe and effective cupping techniques. You can choose to have just a cupping session or add cupping to your therapeutic massage.

The benefits of cupping increase over time – consider a monthly membership for additional savings and convenience while enjoying the health benefits of regular massage, cupping, infrared sauna and acupuncture.

You can book a cupping massage here.

Sources:

Cupping has been used around the world to treat health conditions for thousands of years. It’s making a comeback here in the US thanks to prominent athletes and health-conscious celebrities. You may have seen people with red circular marks (not bruises!) on their shoulders and backs from cupping. Many people have questions about the benefits of cupping and what it’s like.

At Resolution Health, we use dry cupping to help professionals, athletes, students, retirees, and expectant mothers in the Madison area experience relief from muscle pain, edema, and digestive discomfort. (You can book a cupping massage in downtown Madison here.)

We practice dry cupping with negative pressure massage cupping. We do this using smooth glass or silicone cups. Your therapist places the cups on your skin along the acupuncture meridian points. Then your therapist creates gentle suction that pulls your skin up into the cup. (Your skin will not be damaged at any point.)

How does cupping feel? Does it hurt?

Your therapist gently pulls the air out of the glass beaker with an apparatus.

The suction will feel firm (not painful) at first as it pulls your skin up into the cup. This feeling quickly passes when your therapist places the next cup. After placing each cup on your back, shoulder, stomach, etc., your therapist repeats the sucking process. They will always check if you are still comfortable.

Schedule a cupping appointment in downtown Madison with a certified, licensed practitioner. Book a cupping appointment now

When using glass beakers, some therapists use heat (“fire cupping”) to create a vacuum, but we use an apparatus that simply pulls the air out of the beaker. You will hear a faint clicking sound as we use the contraption to create the suction.

Your body will soon get used to the feeling of the cups. You probably won’t even feel every single cup that’s been placed. The number of cups your therapist uses will depend on what is being treated. When you first try cupping, your therapist will likely use fewer cups for a less intense treatment.

Your therapist will leave the cups in place for 5-20 minutes as needed. When it’s time to remove the cups, your therapist will depressurize the cup and set it aside. Releasing pressure often feels soothing, or as if your body feels lighter and less tense.

Sometimes your therapist will apply lotion or oil to your skin and apply less pressure to allow the cups to slide over your skin. This is called “moving cupping”. Moving cupping is often used to treat digestion, inflammation and constipation. Your therapist will slide the cups to your lymph glands to help your body eliminate toxins and waste through your lymphatic system.

What are the suction cups doing?

While the cups are on your skin, they loosen and lift your connective tissues, increasing blood and lymph flow to your skin and muscles. The targeted blood flow brings oxygen-rich blood and lymph to the affected area. Your lymphatic system is responsible for removing cellular waste and toxins from your body. Cupping gives your body an extra boost in eliminating toxins. You can read more about the benefits of cupping in our blog post here.

What about those red marks?

It is important to understand that the red circular marks left by the cups are NOT bruises. They very rarely hurt. Bruising is caused by impact trauma that ruptures capillaries in the injured area. But there is NO compression or impact trauma when cupping is performed correctly. In fact, cupping does the opposite. Instead of compressing/squeezing your skin and muscles, it lifts/pulls your skin and tissues.

The red spots are the result of blood being drawn to that area. The darker the marker, the more stagnant fluids (toxins, blood, and lymph) were dredged during treatment. The marks last anywhere from a few hours to several days. The more times you get cupping for the same problem, the lighter the notes get.

Cupping aftercare

Your therapist will provide you with more detailed aftercare guidance at the end of your session. But here’s the general gist:

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Give your lymphatic system the extra fluid it needs to rid your body of toxins

Do not shower immediately after cupping.

Keep treated areas covered and warm.

Avoid alcohol.

You may feel tired the next day or have flu-like symptoms. That is normal. It is your body that processes and expels the toxins released during your cupping session. Take it easy, rest and practice good self-care. Your body will thank you!

Curious if cupping could help you? Ask your therapist at your next massage session or give us a call. Our therapists have been trained and certified in safe and effective cupping techniques. You can choose to have just a cupping session or add cupping to your therapeutic massage.

The benefits of cupping increase over time – consider a monthly membership for additional savings and convenience while enjoying the health benefits of regular massage, cupping, infrared sauna and acupuncture.

Ready to try it yourself? You can book a cupping massage here.

Source: http://www.cuppingtherapy.org/pages/faqs.html

(Cupping isn’t right for everyone in every situation. Be sure to let your therapist know if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, if you’re taking blood-thinning medications, have certain skin conditions, or are undergoing treatment for cancer.)

How cupping can help with chronic muscle tension and pain

What is cupping?

Cupping is a healing treatment that involves creating a vacuum in glass or plastic cups that creates suction on the skin and muscles. The cups are either left stationary or slid over the skin’s surface with massage oil. Cupping feels like a deep tissue massage but is not painful. The suction can penetrate up to four inches, which benefits internal organs. Cupping often leaves red or purple cupping marks that fade within 2 weeks. Most people find cupping relaxing and refreshing.

Reasons to try cupping

Tight muscles become compressed and have poor blood flow, which can lead to muscle weakness, pain, poor posture and the build-up of toxins. Cupping draws stagnant fluids to the surface, aiding in detoxification and bringing in fresh, nutrient-rich blood. Cupping provides a gentle, sustained stretch to loosen tight muscles and connective tissue buildup. It also eliminates “heat” or inflammation. Cupping is traditionally used at the base of the neck for colds and fevers. In addition, cupping calms the nervous system, so it can help with stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

Most commonly, people get cupping because of tight muscles and pain in the back, shoulders, neck, jaw, legs, or arms. Cupping can also be used to improve lung health; like asthma or a cold. Cupping can also help with headaches, sluggish digestion, breast milk production, and menstrual cramps.

Cupping for myofascial release

The word “myofascial” has two parts. “Myo” means muscle and “fascial” means fascia. Fascia is a network of elastic tissues that run throughout your body. Every muscle has an outer covering of fascia. This stretchy coating absorbs shock and allows muscles to slide over each other. Microscopically, fascia consists of a three-dimensional network of stretchable fibers. When your fascia is healthy, it is soft and flexible. But when you have an injury, long periods of poor posture, repetitive motion, poor diet, or high levels of stress, fascia can become hard and inflexible. Tight fascia can cause pain, limit range of motion, and damage muscles, joints, and tendons.

Similar to the myofascial release massage technique, cupping ensures a sustained stretching of the fascia. The long, gentle stretch provided by cupping allows time for nutrient fluids to flow into the open spaces and elongates the fibers.

When working on tight muscles, it helps to think of muscles and fascia as rubber bands. If you stretch them occasionally, they will quickly return to their taut position. You can only make lasting changes if you frequently relieve tension and improve blood circulation.

Recommended course of treatment

Cupping weekly can have a much deeper impact on your health as the effects are cumulative. If you cup just once, the pain and tension relief usually lasts 3-5 days. Occasionally, a single treatment produces lasting results, but often symptoms return. Weekly cupping for eight to twelve weeks is recommended for a sustained improvement in muscle and connective tissue health.

Written by Rhea Dykoski L.Ac

Cupping has been used around the world to treat health conditions for thousands of years. It’s making a comeback here in the US thanks to prominent athletes and health-conscious celebrities. You may have seen people with red circular marks (not bruises!) on their shoulders and backs from cupping. Many people have questions about the benefits of cupping and what it’s like.

At Resolution Health, we use dry cupping to help professionals, athletes, students, retirees, and expectant mothers in the Madison area experience relief from muscle pain, edema, and digestive discomfort. (You can book a cupping massage in downtown Madison here.)

We practice dry cupping with negative pressure massage cupping. We do this using smooth glass or silicone cups. Your therapist places the cups on your skin along the acupuncture meridian points. Then your therapist creates gentle suction that pulls your skin up into the cup. (Your skin will not be damaged at any point.)

How does cupping feel? Does it hurt?

Your therapist gently pulls the air out of the glass beaker with an apparatus.

The suction will feel firm (not painful) at first as it pulls your skin up into the cup. This feeling quickly passes when your therapist places the next cup. After placing each cup on your back, shoulder, stomach, etc., your therapist repeats the sucking process. They will always check if you are still comfortable.

Schedule a cupping appointment in downtown Madison with a certified, licensed practitioner. Book a cupping appointment now

When using glass beakers, some therapists use heat (“fire cupping”) to create a vacuum, but we use an apparatus that simply pulls the air out of the beaker. You will hear a faint clicking sound as we use the contraption to create the suction.

Your body will soon get used to the feeling of the cups. You probably won’t even feel every single cup that’s been placed. The number of cups your therapist uses will depend on what is being treated. When you first try cupping, your therapist will likely use fewer cups for a less intense treatment.

Your therapist will leave the cups in place for 5-20 minutes as needed. When it’s time to remove the cups, your therapist will depressurize the cup and set it aside. Releasing pressure often feels soothing, or as if your body feels lighter and less tense.

Sometimes your therapist will apply lotion or oil to your skin and apply less pressure to allow the cups to slide over your skin. This is called “moving cupping”. Moving cupping is often used to treat digestion, inflammation and constipation. Your therapist will slide the cups to your lymph glands to help your body eliminate toxins and waste through your lymphatic system.

What are the suction cups doing?

While the cups are on your skin, they loosen and lift your connective tissues, increasing blood and lymph flow to your skin and muscles. The targeted blood flow brings oxygen-rich blood and lymph to the affected area. Your lymphatic system is responsible for removing cellular waste and toxins from your body. Cupping gives your body an extra boost in eliminating toxins. You can read more about the benefits of cupping in our blog post here.

What about those red marks?

It is important to understand that the red circular marks left by the cups are NOT bruises. They very rarely hurt. Bruising is caused by impact trauma that ruptures capillaries in the injured area. But there is NO compression or impact trauma when cupping is performed correctly. In fact, cupping does the opposite. Instead of compressing/squeezing your skin and muscles, it lifts/pulls your skin and tissues.

The red spots are the result of blood being drawn to that area. The darker the marker, the more stagnant fluids (toxins, blood, and lymph) were dredged during treatment. The marks last anywhere from a few hours to several days. The more times you get cupping for the same problem, the lighter the notes get.

Cupping aftercare

Your therapist will provide you with more detailed aftercare guidance at the end of your session. But here’s the general gist:

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Give your lymphatic system the extra fluid it needs to rid your body of toxins

Do not shower immediately after cupping.

Keep treated areas covered and warm.

Avoid alcohol.

You may feel tired the next day or have flu-like symptoms. That is normal. It is your body that processes and expels the toxins released during your cupping session. Take it easy, rest and practice good self-care. Your body will thank you!

Curious if cupping could help you? Ask your therapist at your next massage session or give us a call. Our therapists have been trained and certified in safe and effective cupping techniques. You can choose to have just a cupping session or add cupping to your therapeutic massage.

The benefits of cupping increase over time – consider a monthly membership for additional savings and convenience while enjoying the health benefits of regular massage, cupping, infrared sauna and acupuncture.

Ready to try it yourself? You can book a cupping massage here.

Source: http://www.cuppingtherapy.org/pages/faqs.html

(Cupping isn’t right for everyone in every situation. Be sure to let your therapist know if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, if you’re taking blood-thinning medications, have certain skin conditions, or are undergoing treatment for cancer.)

Cupping is a traditional treatment that is safe, convenient, and effective for many health conditions. The gentle suction created by cupping loosens and lifts connective tissue, increasing blood and lymph flow to your skin and muscles. Proper cupping care is important to get the most benefit from cupping. It is important that you follow these guidelines.

What to do after cupping or a cupping massage:

Drink much water.

Water helps rid your lymphatic system of the cellular waste that is released from your tissues by cupping. stay warm

Try to cover the areas where you received cupping. Rest.

You may feel more tired than usual after cupping or have flu-like symptoms (headache or general body aches). This is a temporary response by your immune system to the cellular waste released by cupping.

Schedule your next cupping appointment in downtown Madison with a certified, licensed practitioner. www.resolution.health/cupping

What you should avoid after cupping or a cupping massage:

For 4-6 hours after cupping, avoid contact with:

Caffeine, alcohol, sugary foods and drinks, dairy and processed meats

These foods slow down your body’s ability to process the treatment. Hot showers, saunas, jacuzzis and powerful air conditioning

After cupping, your skin will become more temperature sensitive in the areas where the cupping glasses were placed. Give your skin time to recover. If possible, shower with filtered water to avoid getting unnecessary chemicals back on your skin. Intense training Cold and windy conditions.

How to prepare for cupping or cupping massage:

Hydrate. Water is important to your health, especially your lymphatic system. Cupping supports your lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system removes cellular waste from your body, and it needs a lot of water to do it effectively. Eat about an hour before your appointment. Do not shave the area within four hours of your appointment. Your therapist doesn’t mind stubble, and your skin will thank you. Recover from a sunburn. If you get cupping, it will feel like that area is warmer than normal. Neither the cup nor the extra warmth feels good on sunburned skin. Apply some soothing aloe and wait for your skin to recover before heading to your next cupping appointment. Don’t peel aggressively. The scrub removes a layer of dead skin that makes your skin extra sensitive. Wait a few days after aggressive peeling treatment before getting cupping.

This is how the cupping marks disappear faster:

After cupping, your skin will have circular marks that range in color from pink to deep red or purple. People may joke that you look like you had a fight with an octopus. Wear these badges proudly! You are doing something great for your body.

Discolorations from cupping fade. Some may fade after a few hours, while others may take up to two weeks to disappear completely. The discoloration is related to the health of your body at the time of cupping.

If you want those spots to go away faster, do two things: hydrate and rest.

Everyone’s body responds differently to cupping, even when these cupping aftercare guidelines are followed. If you have any questions before or after a cupping appointment, please call us to speak with a licensed therapist.

Resolution Health Collaborative in Madison, Wisconsin

(608) 443-7048