What is cupping therapy? |

Overview

Cupping, typically associated with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is one of the oldest known therapeutic practices in the world. Cupping involves attaching a hollow cupped vessel to the surface of the skin by heat or air suction. Once a vacuum is created, the underlying tissue is lifted and blood is drawn to the area. The degree of skin discoloration indicates the nature of the congestion. The number, size, type, and movement of the cup and the degree and duration of suction can be varied according to the ailment being treated.

Mechanism of Action

The exact healing mechanism of cupping is unknown. Cupping is thought to
stimulate the body’s natural energy to promote healing by reducing stagnant blood,
activating the immune system, improving circulation, and helping the body
detoxify. Another possible explanation is the placebo
effect.

Uses and Applications

Cupping therapy is primarily used to relieve pain, gastrointestinal disorders such as abdominal pain and indigestion, respiratory problems such as chronic cough and asthma, menstrual disturbances, and skin conditions. Cupping is most commonly used in conjunction with acupuncture, acupressure, bleeding treatments, and moxibustion.

Scientific Evidence

Cupping has existed for hundreds of years and many researchers have investigated its benefits, but it is a new area of study in Western medicine. Most evidence supporting the use of cupping as a cure for illness is anecdotal.

Various studies have suggested that cupping treatments are effective in
temporarily alleviating chronic pain. None, however, were double-blind,
placebo-controlled trials, and most proved to be inconclusive
because of low enrollment, poor study design, inadequate blinding procedures, and
a lack of appropriate scientific control groups. Several studies indicate that
cupping treatments combined with other therapies, such as acupuncture, may improve
clinical outcomes, but scientific evidence is limited.

Cupping is an appealing natural treatment option for various illnesses because it is convenient and relatively safe. Some evidence suggests that cupping may be beneficial for various conditions because of its relaxation effect. More rigorous research studies are needed, however, to properly assess the clinical value of cupping in Western medicine.

Choosing a Practitioner

Cupping therapy is a relatively unregulated field. Treatments should be performed by skilled practitioners to avoid injury.

Safety Issues

Cupping therapy, which is considered safe with minimal side effects, may cause marks or bruising. The appearance of blisters, blood spots, or burns indicates an abnormally harsh treatment.

Cupping should be performed only on areas of soft muscle tissue. It should not be performed on persons with skin ulcers, high fever, convulsions, cramps, bleeding disorders, or cardiovascular disease, or on women who are pregnant.

Bibliography

Chirali, Ilkay Z. Traditional Chinese Medicine: Cupping Therapy. 2d ed. New York: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier, 2007.

Dharmananda, Subhuti. “Cupping.” Institute for Traditional Medicine Online. ITMO, Mar. 1999. Web. 27 Jan. 2016.

Pringle, Michael. “Some Thoughts on Fire Cupping.” Journal of Chinese Medicine 83 (2007): 46–51.

Pritchard, Sarah, and Andrew Croysdale. Tui Na: A Manual of Chinese Massage Therapy. London: Singing Dragon, 2015. eBook Collection (EBSCOhost). Web. 27 Jan. 2016.

Shixi, Huang, and Cao Yu. “Cupping Therapy.” Journal of Chinese Medicine 82 (2006): 52–57.