Exploring Remedial Cupping Therapy: Benefits and Mechanisms Uncovered

The Origins of Cupping Therapy

Dating back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, African and Middle Eastern cultures, cupping therapy has stood the test of time. Initially practiced using animal horns and bamboo, modern cupping therapy involves glass, hard plastic or soft silicone cups placed on the skin to create suction.

Unveiling the Benefits of Remedial Cupping Therapy

Understanding the Mechanisms Behind Cupping Therapy

The therapeutic effects of cupping therapy are believed to be multifaceted. The suction created by the cups is thought to mobilize blood flow to the affected areas, promoting healing and relieving muscle tension. More specifically, in the words of Bruce Bentley of Health Tradition (long established expert in Cupping therapy and international teacher):

"Muscle tightness by its nature descends into the body. By the time a trigger point has developed, what is painful and immediate upon palpation is like, by analogy, the upper portion of an iceberg - with the bulk of its mass beneath the surface. Cupping is an effective dispersing therapy because the drawing effect of vacuum makes cupping the only therapy that turns around the inward dynamic and separates and opens out the constricted tissue fibers and promotes an increase of blood supply to release tightness and increase metabolic uptake."

Relief from Muscle Pain and Tension

One of the most renowned benefits of cupping therapy is its ability to alleviate muscle pain and tension. By increasing blood circulation, deeply smoothing fascia adhesion and loosening tight muscles, cupping can offer relief from both acute and chronic aches and pains.

Enhanced Relaxation and Stress Reduction

The gentle suction of cupping therapy not only targets physical discomfort but also serves as a relaxing experience for many individuals. The release of tension and the calming effect of the therapy can help reduce stress and promote a sense of overall well-being.

Detoxification and Improved Circulation

Cupping therapy is believed to aid in the detoxification process by drawing out toxins and impurities from the body. Furthermore, the improved circulation resulting from cupping can enhance the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to tissues, bolstering overall health.

Stimulation of Acupuncture Points

Acupuncture points, through different methods of activation, can help regulate and restore key mechanisms for physiological wellbeing. Cupping is one of these methods.

What are the bruise looking marks?

They are NOT bruises, only discolouration as no trauma happened, therefore despite the sometimes dramatic colouring, little to no tenderness at all is felt where the cups were applied. In fact cupping may be used to disperse bruising, and cupping marks do not even always come up even when applied strongly.

How long before these marks disappear?

Depending on the intensity of the colouring (light pink to dark purple), it may take a couple of days up to a couple of weeks.

Any contraindications?

Of course, as with everything that has an effect, there may be adverse effects which the trained practitioner knows to avoid. Some of the contraindications are:

Skin lesions (cut, abrasion, skin ulcer, etc).

Functional kidney or liver diseases.

Children under the age of 7.

Person under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.

Right after exercising.

Any sooner than 1 hour after eating.

Keywords: Cupping Therapy, Remedial Cupping, Ancient Healing, Wellness Practices, Alternative Therapy