Upon first glance we can trace the history of cupping back to a
Yet upon further review some of the earliest photographic evidence suggests cupping’s origins date back to a
Today's Trend, Ancient Therapy
However what is undisputable is that social and traditional media coverage of cupping was greatly expanded by during the .
Cupping has enjoyed a surge in popularity recently, but this therapy dates back thousands of years in Ancient Chinese, Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures. It is found in some of the earliest medical texts written over 4500 years ago.
What is Cupping?
In Ancient Chinese Medicine cupping is a therapy in which cups are applied along meridians on the skin and suction is created. It is used for treating conditions and diseases through local congestion or blood stasis by using a small jar in which a vacuum is created by introducing heat, then attaching it by suction to the skin surface where the selected point is located.
Cupping, in practice, stimulates the flow of blood, balances energy and Qi within the superficial muscle layers which leads to pain relief of all types.
Why use Cupping
The main focus of cupping therapy has traditionaly been to relieve pain but has numerous practical applications. It is commonly used to treat diseases like arthritis, especially on the lumbar region, injuries of soft tissue, sprains, pain in the extremities, paralysis, bronchitis, asthma etc…
Athletes, primarily in the last decade, have begun to utilize this therapy to aid in the muscle recovery process and it can also be applied for cosmetic reasons to prevent wrinkles and rejuvenate supple skin.
What happens during and after?
During a cupping therapy session, you may experience slight pressure, discomfort and/or itching in the area where the cups are applied but most patients report no pain or symptoms. For a few days after you can expect to have red or purple spots in the application area. Generally, we recommend a day or 2 to rest after treatment but many times pain relief can be immediate and long lasting
Whether used as a stand-alone treatment for conditions such as back ache and athletic recovery, or as a complement to other therapies and medicines for physical injuries and chronic conditions to mitigate pain cupping may help you lead an improved physical life. Striking the right balance of therapy is the essence of Traditional Chinese Medicine and we recommend you consult with your doctor before beginning any treatment. Please feel free to contact Tranquility Health for a personalized assessment.