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Treatments > Cupping

Cupping refers to an ancient Chinese practice in which a cup is applied to the skin and the pressure in the cup is reduced by removing the oxygen from the cup, so that the skin and superficial muscle layer is drawn into and held in the cup. In some cases, the cup may be moved while the suction of the skin is active, causing a regional pulling of the skin and muscle, this technique is called gliding cups.

This treatment has some relation to certain massage techniques, such as the rapid skin pinching along the back that is an important aspect of tuina massage (Nie fa) where the skin is pinched and held while moving along the Bladder Channel. Cupping is commonly used by Acupuncturists, Tuina and Shiatsu therapists along the channels and points to relieve pain and to stimulate the point.

When the cups are moved along the surface of the skin, this is similar to Gua sha (scraping method) this a folk remedy is most common in the south east of Asia, which is carried out by scraping the edge of a spoon along the surface of the skin to remove stasis, oils are used to prevent friction to the skin. Skin reddening is expected after cupping is used, especially static cupping, The redness may remain up 14 days after cupping depending on the diagnosis.

Commonly class or bamboo cups are used throughout China and many of the patients cup themselves before coming to clinic. In more recent times plastic cups are used as they have a longer shelf life, a hand pump is used to remove the air from the cup. This method is very convenient and reduces burning of the skin. The cups can be left in place for up to 15 minutes.

Cupping is recommended for the treatment of pain, menstrual disorders, gastro-intestinal disorders, it removes blood stasis and increases the blood flow to areas of the body that need it.

When cupping young people and the very old the pressure should be reduced to lessen any harmful effects to the patients.