Pain can be one of the most difficult experiences to manage and treat. Many times a person with chronic pain will need to try several different modalities before finding something that works. If you’re interested in natural, alternative therapies for pain you’ll want to be aware of the Chinese therapy called Cupping. This therapy has been around for thousands of years and isn’t widely known about in the western world but is gaining in popularity.

What is cupping?
Cupping can be traced to ancient Egypt over 3000 years ago and in today’s world is practiced in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The treatment creates a partial vacuum on the skin using cups. The result is a suction that increases blood and energy flow to the area. The increase of circulation facilitates localized healing.
The way Cupping relieves pain is by opening up the meridians, or energy channels, of the body and improving energy flow to every organ and tissue of the body. Cupping also triggers body tissues to release toxins and activates the lymphatic system which helps to alleviate aches and pains.

The cupping process:
Glass cups are generally used for cupping, although bamboo cups are also used. Glass cups are fitted with a valve that attaches to a small hand-operated pump, allowing the practitioner to suck out air without having to rely on fire to depressurize the cup first. It also gives them greater control over the amount of suction. The modern name for cupping is baguanfa or suction cup therapy.
In order to allow the cups to move over the skin easily, oil is used. Oils that have been infused with extracts of medicinal herbs are particularly useful. The cups are applied at room temperature, and there is some friction generated with moving cups, causing a small but significant amount of heat, especially if a warming oil is also used.
Cups are generally left in place for ten minutes although the time can range from five to fifteen minutes. The skin will redden due to the congestion of blood flow. The cup is removed from the skin by pressing the skin on one side, allowing some outside air to enter and thus equalise the pressure. Some bruising on the skin where the rim of the cup is to be expected.

What can cupping relieve?
This natural treatment isn’t only great for back pain, Cupping can be an excellent noninvasive treatment of:

  • Body pain including but not limited to knee pain, elbow pain, back and neck pain, pain in the legs, low back pain, hand pain
  • Acute pain such as sprains and strains
  • Dull aches and pains, arthritis
  • Edema and swellings
  • Respiratory issues like asthma, chronic cough, and bronchitis
  • Abdominal pain, stomachache and indigestion
  • Painful menstruation and associated low back pain
  • Coughs from excessive mucus

If you struggle with any of the above ailments it may be time to give Cupping a try. The Wellness Center’s Dr. Tim Price and Dr. Shwu-Yar Tsai both offer Cupping in Denver and can work with you to create the perfect treatment plan. Schedule your appointment today.

Article References:
https://www.wellnessdenver.com/acupuncture/cupping-alternative-therapy-for-back-pain/

https://www.wellnessdenver.com/uncategorized/cupping-ancient-healing-tools-are-making-a-comeback/
http://www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/natural_medicine/Cupping#ixzz3kVXHBELZ