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Therapeutic Cupping

Cupping Therapy has been used in China for thousands of years, as well as other parts of the world that date back to 3000 B.C. Cupping entails applying suction cups that are made from glass, bamboo, plastic, or silicone. There are three forms of cupping. They include Dry, Wet, and Fire Cupping. Most commonly used are the Dry and Fire Cupping.

The cups are placed along various points and areas on the body. The upward suction creates a negative pressure that helps to draw stagnated blood, and other fluids that have fallen out of healthy circulation to the surface of the skin and away from the injury so that fresh blood, oxygen, and nutrients can be restored to the affected areas, and aid in Healing. The cups rapidly facilitate rigid soft tissue release, loosens and lifts connective tissue, as well as affecting the parasympathetic nervous system to help aid the body into a completely relaxed state that can last for hours or even a few days after the treatment.

What are the benefits of Cupping?

  • Breaks up stagnation
  • Deep tissue massage without the discomfort
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Relief from emotional tensions
  • Increases blood flow
  • Nervous system sedation
  • Improved digestion
  • Improve immunity by increasing lymphatic output
  • Optimize athletic performance

Uses for Cupping

  • Headaches
  • Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Post surgery adhesions
  • Post injury trauma
  • Chronic pain
  • Neck and shoulder pain
  • Back pain
  • Cellulite

Contraindications for Cupping

Cupping is contraindicated in cases of severe diseases, such as cardiac failure, renal failure, as cites due to hepato-cirrhosis and severe edema, as well as hemorrhagic diseases such as allergic purpura, hemophilia and leukemia, and clients with dermatosism destruction of skin, or allergic dermatitis.

Cupping should not be applied on an are where a hernia exists or has occurred in the past.

For pregnant women, work on the lower abdomen, inner side of the legs, and sacral (tailbone area) is to always be avoided. Also, if you have never received a treatment, you should wait until your 2nd trimester to receive your first treatment.

Other contraindications:

  • Broken bones
  • Dislocations
  • Slipped Disks
  • Those undergoing Cancer treatments such as radiation ( check with Doctor)
  • Sunburn
  • Fever - you will be sent home
  • Dehydration- no cupping used but Massage is fine
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Acute stages of Psoriasis, Eczema, or Rosacea

If you are on Blood thinners, are a hemophiliac, diabetic, or have high or low blood pressure, shorter, lighter techniques are recommended and must be used for your overall wellness. Those with low blood pressure should warn the therapist ahead of time as you will need extra time to rest before rising after a treatment.

Before and After Care

It is recommended to eat something before your cupping treatment. Sometimes if the treatment is done on an empty stomach, feelings of dizziness or nausea could happen. Know if you have any social situations where you may not want to have the discoloration since they can last 1 day to 3 weeks.

Keep the cupped area covered and protected after your treatment with a light hoodie, scarf, jacket, shirt ,etc. Cupping opens the surface of the body, therefore temperature extremes, especially wind and cold, can trigger the muscles to go into spasm or tighten up. Also, avoid exercise, a hot shower or any other extreme exposure to heat or cold after the treatment for four to six hours.

Drink plenty of water to help flush out the toxins.

Refrain from alcohol or any substances for at least 48 hrs. Your liver and kidneys are working hard to filter and clean the body.

Take it easy. Your body is healing. Give yourself permission to recuperate.