Cupping is an ancient therapy used in China and Europe. It consists of the application of suction cups to an area of the body. There are many reasons to use as well as many ways to use the cups in order to release tight muscles, fascia, trigger points and excess heat in the body or to treat certain health conditions.
These treatments will increase the blood flow within the area, it will also loosen and increase muscle flexibility which will help clear the condition being treated. There are many different kinds of cups. In ancient times, practitioners would use Fire Cups. The heat from the fire would create the suction needed to lift the skin, fascia and muscles. With newly updated mechanisms, we are now able to use Glass Cups where the suction is created by using a hand pump. This actually allows better control of the cup during use. It allows the strength of the suction to be adjusted easily depending on the age, condition and energy level of the patient. It also allows one to have greater control in the area where the cup is being applied.
WARNING: Use of cupping kits sold to the public can be dangerous. They seem easy enough to use but there are many people and physical conditions that are contraindicated for use. People that come from families that have used cupping during their upbringing in Europe and China may be knowledgeable about when and how to use the cups. Others must know the dangers associated with cupping: Cupping must not be used by “lay people” for people with conditions related to bleeding complications, high or low blood pressure, excess stress, excess or low energy level, fatigue, injuries, broken bones and many more. It is best to have cupping performed by someone who is trained.