Whenever cupping is mentioned, the first thought most people have is of the dark little round marks on the backs of athletes most notably during the Olympics. But what exactly is cupping and why does it produce those marks?
History of Cupping and its Modernization
Cupping, or myofascial decompression, is an ancient form of Chinese healing practiced as far back as 1550 BC. The idea is that health issues arise due to the stagnation of blood or having less than ideal energy flowing through the body. Practitioners would apply cups made of glass to the skin and create pressure using a heated cup to allow suction to draw the skin, muscle and fascia into the cup, thereby improving blood flow to that area.
Modern practitioners also utilize pumps to remove air from the cup once it is applied to the skin, producing the same suction effect. These cups are applied to areas of tension or pain which most frequently include chronic low back, neck, and shoulder issues but can also be used in the lower extremities as well.
Health Benefits
While research has produced some positive results in the efficacy of cupping, the overall science of cupping and its long history of usage is still not entirely known. The mechanical effect of suction forcing an increase in localized blood flow is thought to improve the recovery process by encouraging immune cells to the location of the cup which would help reduce inflammation. Not only would that help reduce toxins in the area, but by affecting the fascia, cupping can turn on nerve cells that will help communicate with the rest of the body.
Cupping can also complement other forms of treatments such as chiropractic, physical therapy, or deep-tissue massage therapy.
Possible Risks
Though most experts agree that cupping is safe especially while performing dry cupping, some side effects can occur. These can include the sensation of pinch during the suction, dizziness, and the red marks that are left behind as tiny blood vessels respond to the change in pressure and burst as they do when our bodies bruise.
To mitigate some of these side effects, notify your practitioner if you are on a blood-thinning medication as bruising will occur easier. Also make sure to stay hydrated as total volume of blood is affected by the amount of our water intake.
Key Points
Cupping is an ancient, natural treatment that involves suction to increase blood flow, encourage immune cell function, and reduce inflammation and pain.
While there is little research describing how cupping works, many patients find relief from chronic low back, neck, and shoulder pain through gentle cupping methods.
Patients can utilize cupping as complementary service with many of their chiropractors, physical therapists, or massage therapists.
While the risks associated with cupping are minimal, it is always best to inform your practitioner of blood-thinning medications and water intake.
Content found in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not indented as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, and/or treatment. Readers should always consult their healthcare professional for medical advice on any of the topics mentioned here.
References
Lowe DT. Cupping therapy: An analysis of the effects of suction on skin and the possible influence on human health. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2017 Nov;29:162-168. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2017.09.008. Epub 2017 Sep 14. PMID: 29122256.
Chi L et al. The Effectiveness of Cupping Therapy on Relieving Chronic Neck and Shoulder Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016;2016:7358918.
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