CUPPING THERAPY: TRUTHS AND MYTHS

In recent years, cupping therapy has gained popularity around the world, with people turning to it for relief from pain, stress, and other health issues. However, as with any traditional practice, there are plenty of misconceptions. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common myths about cupping therapy and reveal the truths behind them.

Myth 1: Cupping Therapy Is Just a Modern Trend

Truth:
While it may feel like a new wellness trend, cupping therapy has a history that spans thousands of years. It was a part of traditional medicine in ancient China, Egypt, Middle East, Africa, North America, and Europe. It was used to treat various ailments, improve circulation, release pain and tension, reduce fever and blood pressure. Its resurgence in the West doesn’t change its ancient roots; it’s a tried-and-true therapy that has stood the test of time due to its effectiveness.

Myth 2: Cupping is quackery and lacks evidence-based research.
Truth: Cupping is widely utilized in physical therapy offices and rehabilitation clinics, with many health insurance plans covering it under specific coding. It is, indeed, a recognized and evidence-supported practice.

Extensive research on cupping exists, much of it available in open resources. Here are some key benefits of cupping therapy:

• Lifts and separates muscles and fascia:
  Cupping creates space for improved blood and lymphatic circulation while relieving compressed nerves.
• Creates a hypoxic (low oxygen) environment:
  By inducing temporary oxygen deficiency in tissues, cupping stimulates the release of nitric oxide, which relaxes and widens blood vessels, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure.
• Stimulates endorphin and kinin production:
  These natural chemicals help reduce stress and alleviate muscular tension.
• Boosts immune response:
  The appearance of cupping marks signals white blood cells to clear cellular debris under the skin. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a cupping massage technique known as the “flu shot” helps strengthen immunity during cold and flu seasons.
• Encourages angiogenesis (new blood vessel development):
  Minor capillary damage caused by cupping triggers the formation of new capillaries, improving oxygen supply to tissues.
• Enhances lymphatic and blood exchange:
  Cupping reduces edema, minimizes water retention, and provides a detoxifying effect.
• Increases red and white blood cell production:
  Techniques like hijama, or “wet cupping” (which involves the withdrawal of small amounts of blood), stimulate the body to produce new blood cells.
• Creates a thixotropic effect:
  Thixotropy refers to a property of gels or fluids that become less viscous when agitated or stressed. Cupping massage helps reduce scar tissue and improves mobility in the spaces between muscles and fascia.
• Cupping is used by athletes to improve endurance. It helps deliver more oxygen to the muscles and is commonly applied before competitions to enhance performance and after competitions to promote faster recovery.
• Supports Aesthetic Treatments: Cupping massage can aid in cellulite reduction, facial lifting, and lymphatic drainage.

Myth 3: Cupping Therapy Is Painful and Leaves Burns on the Skin
Truth:
A cupping session is not painful. You may feel a sense of decompression in the muscles, which is often described as a gentle pulling or warming sensation. Most people find it relaxing rather than painful.

Cupping marks are caused by broken capillaries under the skin due to the suction from the cups. These marks resemble bruises but are not true bruises that injure the muscles. Cupping marks usually fade within 1 to 10 days.

In traditional fire cupping, a fire torch is used to burn oxygen inside the cup to create a vacuum. However, the fire never touches the skin.

The color and pattern of the cupping marks can indicate the level of stagnation in the area. Darker marks typically suggest greater stagnation.

Myth 4: Cupping Only Works on Muscle Pain

Truth:
Cupping isn’t just about relieving muscle pain. Cupping can address a variety of issues:  coughs or congestion, arthritis, digestive issues, infertility, weight loss, and more.

Myth 5: Cupping Is a “One-Size-Fits-All” Treatment

Truth:
Cupping sessions are personalized based on individual needs. Different techniques—such as dry, wet, or sliding cupping—can be used depending on the desired outcome. Practitioners may tailor sessions based on a person’s health concerns, body type, and treatment goals. A good practitioner will work with you to find the approach that fits your specific needs.

What to Expect in a Cupping Session
For those new to cupping, a session typically includes the following steps:

1. Preparation: The practitioner may warm up your back using an infrared lamp and apply herbal-based massage oil to the skin to enhance the experience.
2. Placement: Cups are placed on specific points and create a vacuum, either through heat or a suction pump. Cupping machines may also be used for cupping massage or gradual decompression techniques.
3. Sensation: You will feel a gentle pulling sensation as the cups draw blood to the skin’s surface. This typically lasts for 10–15 minutes.
4. Aftercare: Post-cupping care includes staying warm, avoiding vigorous exercise, and drinking plenty of water to support detoxification.

 

Final Thoughts
Cupping therapy offers numerous benefits, but it’s important to separate myths from facts to fully appreciate how this ancient practice works. When performed by a qualified and licensed practitioner, cupping can be an effective tool for managing pain, reducing stress, and supporting holistic wellness.

If you’re curious about whether cupping therapy is right for you, feel free to contact us. We’ll guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.