Cupping

• History of Cupping,
• Basics of cupping,
• Tools of Cupping,
• Techniques of application,
• Benefits of Cupping,
• Contraindications

History of Cupping

Cupping is an ancient traditional healing method used in China, now all over the world, which dates back to the year 281.A.D. This ancient medical practice was originally used by Taoists in the imperial courts of that era.

Although history has shown cupping to be used in other civilizations, it was first documented by a Taoist, Alchemist and medicinal Herbalist named Ge Hong.

Previously, animal horns were used for cupping. In the modern day, common glass cups or even fine plastic cups have been used to replace its ancestral animal horns and bamboo. The type of cups has also evolved over time to suit the patients’ needs.

Basics of cupping

Cupping has been used extensively to treat a wide variety of diseases and symptoms either with combination with Acupuncture or stand-alone to relieve symptoms.

Cupping is a form of therapy which uses suction to create a vacuum which lifts the soft tissue and creates an upward stretch within the muscle and associated fascia. This helps to increase blood flow and induces a stretch effect, which results in a reduction in muscle tension. The concept is similar to Acupuncture where ‘Qi’ is drawn to areas with poor blood or lymph circulation.

Tools of Cupping

Cupping has come a long way from its predecessors. Bamboo cups, animal horn cups, brass cups and clay pots are commonly used types. The type of cup used has evolved to suit the needs of the current society and expectations. Today, a wide variety of cups has been used in the cupping process. The type of cup used also depends on the type of ailment to be treated.

Some of the common cups used include

• Fire suction cup- glass


• Rubber cups


• Facial cups


• Biomagnetic cups


• Electric cups.

How to perform Cupping

Cupping should always be performed by a qualified traditional medicine practitioner or a skilled masseuse. If done incorrectly, it can cause injury or even aggravate existing conditions.

Procedure

1. 1. Clean the area to be cupped with warm water and disinfectant.
2. 2. While using glass cups, they should be properly sterilized before use. While using plastic cups, they can be disposed after use. Any other cup must be cleansed and sterilized before use.
3. 3. Select an appropriate size of cup according to the area being treated.
4. 4. Apply little amounts of oil or cream to the desired area.
5. 5. For fire cupping, hold a small ball of cotton with forceps, dip it in surgical spirit and lit it, hold it inside the cup to heat the air in the cup, then place it over the desired area, it will create a suction.
6. 6. The number of cups can vary according to the area affected.
7. 7. After the set time, release the pressure in the cup by pressing the skin down or by releasing the valve to release vacuum. Do not wrench the cup away suddenly to prevent skin damage.
8. 8. There will be bruising or discoloration of the skin on the treated areas and will last normally up to 3 or 4 days or even a week. So request consent from patient before the treatment.
9. 9. Duration- Not more than 15 minutes on one area.