Have you ever seen those big circular bruises on athletes and celebrities and wondered what they were from? Well, chances are they're from cupping therapy, an ancient therapy that involves creating suction on the skin using cups and has been used for thousands of years in various cultures around the world.
While often associated with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), cupping therapy originated in the Middle East and was known as hijama. It was used for centuries to treat a wide range of conditions, including headaches, back pain, and even respiratory issues. Many people still swear by the potential benefits of cupping for pain relief, improved circulation, and general well-being.
Cupping therapy works by creating suction on the skin using cups. This suction helps draw blood and lymph to the surface of the skin, increasing circulation to the area. By improving circulation, cupping therapy can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension. It also stimulates the immune system, allowing the body to better fight off infections and illnesses. The suction created by cupping therapy can also help break up adhesions and improve range of motion and mobility. The bruising that often occurs after a cupping session is due to the breaking of capillaries and is an expected side effect of the therapy.
During a cupping therapy session, cups are applied to the skin using suction, either by heating the cups or using a pump. You may feel a tight sensation as the cups pull your skin upward. The cups are usually left in place for 5-15 minutes. The practitioner may move the cups around or leave them in place depending on your specific needs. The cups are removed by breaking the seal and gently lifting them off the skin. Aftercare may involve the application of ointment or lotion to the area to prevent any discomfort or bruising. It is recommended to avoid strenuous activity and exposure to extreme temperatures for a few hours after the therapy session.
Keep in mind that while cupping therapy has many potential benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Cupping therapy should be avoided if you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications. For example, if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners, cupping therapy may not be safe for you. Similarly, if you have skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, cupping may aggravate these conditions. Additionally, cupping therapy should not be performed on areas with fractures, hernias, or varicose veins.
As always, it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying cupping therapy to ensure it's safe for you.
In conclusion, cupping therapy is an ancient and effective practice that has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of conditions. Although it's generally safe and non-invasive, it's not suitable for everyone, so it's important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying it out.
If you are ready to try out cupping you can book with us below to experience cupping for yourself.
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