Cupping therapy is an ancient form of substitute medicine, which follows a non-invasive healing system. It is a type of therapeutic detoxifying deep-tissue massage, which involves placing special cups on the patient’s skin. These cups extract out stagnant and congested blood by creating suction. It has a host of health benefits, which often supersede modern medical techniques. It augments immune functions, imparts relaxing and relieving sensations inflammation, and stimulates healing.
The therapeutic treatment dates back to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures. Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest medical textbooks in the world, describes the way ancient Egyptian used cupping therapy in 1550 B.C. Proposed by Hippocrates, the Father of Modern Medicine, his guide to clinical treatment includes the technique.
Usually, substances like glass, bamboo, earthenware, or silicone make up the cups.
Cupping methods can either by dry, or wet. Different methods such as fixed and gliding types are available.
- During a dry cupping session, practitioner sets a flammable substance such as alcohol, herbs, or paper inside an appropriate cup and sets it on fire. Further, as the fire goes out, he places the cups upside-down on the skin. On cooling, a vacuum is generated inside the cup. Underlying skin tissue rises and reddens due to the expansion of blood vessels. Additionally, he leaves the cups this way for about 3 minutes. Softer tissues are detoxified using the dry method. The practitioner also moves the cups around after applying a lubricant.
- During wet cupping procedure, a milder vacuum is produced by the cups. The therapist usually makes a cut on the skin using a sterilized scalpel. Moreover, a second cupping session is conducted to draw out some blood from the body. Also, to prevent any infection, he would apply antibiotic ointment and bandages.
- Fixed method involves placing the cups over a small area of tissue on the body. They are kept in a static way for a variable amount of time, as per requirement.
- Sliding cups technique is performed on a large muscle tissue. Usually, the therapist applies oil so as the cups could glide over easily. Additionally, this nurses back pain and muscle spasm.
Cupping produces momentary red, blue or purple bruises, especially near a site of injury or blockage. Once the marks of the previous session are clear, re-application can be done.
Sometimes, people undergo a technique known as Needle Cupping. First, the therapist inserts acupuncture needles in the skin. This is followed by cupping.
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HOW DOES CUPPING HELP?
- To begin with, it aids in reducing acne, cellulite, herpes zoster, and skin inflammation
- Helps to nurse facial paralysis and cervical spondylosis
- Helps in treating insomnia
- Improves digestion
- Eases blood disorders, such as anemia and hemophilia
- Used to treat rheumatic diseases like arthritis
- Also, it cures fertility and gynecological disorders
- Improves treatment of skin problems
- Mitigates high blood pressure and varicose veins
- Assists in dealing with anxiety, depression, and migraines
- Resolves respiratory issues, particularly allergies, flu, common cold, asthma, and tuberculosis
- Stimulates blood flow and lymph flow
- Resolves swelling and fever
- Finally, it helps in eliminating toxins
HOW IS SAFE THE THERAPY?
Usually, when performed by a well-trained health professional, cupping is fairly safe. Conversely, few potential side effects can occur. For instance:
- Mild discomfort
- Burns
- Bruises
- Skin infection
However, patients who have disturbed blood clotting, skin ulcers or edema must not undergo the therapy.
WHY MIGHT CUPPING THERAPY GO MAINSTREAM THIS YEAR?
- Celebrity cupping enthusiasts have been constantly increasing in number. Famed artists like Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, Justin Beiber, Lady Gaga, Victoria Beckham, Chris Martin, Bani J. Even Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister underwent the therapy.
- Athletes use cupping therapy to naturally improve health and performance. Neymar Jr., a Brazilian footballer, Michael Phelps, an Olympic swimmer, and Andy Murray, a tennis ace have gone through the therapy recently.
- It provides relief for various health conditions as listed previously.
Cupping therapy is definitely a suitable and affordable option if the patient is looking for a natural approach for pain management and relaxation!
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