The term Cupping refers to an ancient Chinese practice in which a cup is placed on the skin and an area of low pressure is created within that cup, drawing up the tissues beneath it. Cups are normally used on soft tissue that can form a good seal with the edge of the cup. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with acupuncture or massage.
Pressure is reduced within the cups either by a rapid change in temperature or by use of a vacuum pump. The drawing up of skin and superficial muscle into the cup works to increase blood flow to the area, break up fascial restrictions ( fascia is the connective tissues surrounding and attaching your muscles), strengthen local metabolism and facilitate elimination of substances that cause pain and cramping. This translates to decreased back pain or stiffness and increased range of motion!
Indications (symptoms that respond well) for cupping include headaches, muscle pain, acute sprains, menstrual cramping and constipation. Contraindications (reasons to avoid cupping) include high fever, high blood pressure, a history of stroke or heart attack, bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, and skin disorders such as dermatitis. Pregnancy is also contraindicated, but only over the abdomen and low back.
A common side effect of cupping is petechia (often dubbed “bruising”, though it is a different mechanism), which is the term used to describe congestion of blood at the surface of the body, at the site of the cupping. These marks are darker and more localized when the cup is stationary and fainter if the cup has been slid over the skin to treat a broader area. These marks are desired, as they promote your body’s function to clear this congestion (as well as the pain and stiffness at the site and… okay, let’s be honest here…. it’s pretty badass to tell your friends you were in a barfight with an octopus!). Normal metabolic processes are restored by the movement of fluids as nutrients are carried to the tissues and metabolic wastes are carried away. The petechia marks are often only tender to the touch (local to the location of the cup placement) for a short time and fade away within 7-14 days.
If you find yourself curious about this ancient Chinese art, the ever-knowledgeable staff would love to enlighten you! Prana Holistic has online booking available at this link. Or you can give us a call at 780-454-5299.
Ruth Rogers, RMT