Cupping is a therapy where small glass or plastic globes – about the size of a baby food jar – are placed on the skin with mild suction. It may be used during an acupuncture treatment, or can be a treatment alone. Cupping releases muscle tension or scar tissue, stimulates acupuncture points, and moves energy in the acupuncture channels or meridians.  By drawing stagnation and toxins to the surface, cupping treats pain, improves respiratory conditions when used on the upper back, and can be used on most large areas of the body.

Cupping treatment

From a Western medicine standpoint, the suction of cupping releases the fascia – a thin connective tissue that covers muscles or groups of muscles. Suction is created by a pump-like device or by holding a candle or flame briefly inside the cup to remove the air before the cup is applied. Cups are left in place for about 10 minutes; moved along the skin with oil; or placed momentarily, then moved to nearby location. Like a massage, moving the cups over the muscles increases blood and lymph circulation.

The cups may leave round red marks on the skin that last for up to four days. Areas that are cupped should be kept covered and protected from cold and wind for about 48 hours.

Animal horns were originally used for this ancient therapy usually associated with Oriental medicine. But it is used by many cultures – Mexican, South American, and the countries surrounding the Mediterranean are just a few. Cupping is part of the Muslim culture as a ‘medicine of the prophet.’

Neck pain from working at a computer responds well to cupping. Dancers and athletes use it for injures and pain from repetitive stress. (Even celebrities show their cupping marks and recommend its benefits.) Since many conditions respond to cupping, ask your acupuncturist if this therapy is appropriate for your health needs.