Cupping

What is cupping?

Cupping is one technique used to treat Meridian Points (alongside acupuncture or acupressure techniques) and relieve sore or tight muscles. The cups create a suction, either with heat in glass cups or a suction pump with plastic or silicone cups, causing the underlying tissue to be drawn into the cup. At River City Chiropractic, plastic cups with a suction pump are used instead.

Cupping affects the Meridian Points to help balance Qi (Chi, Xi) in the body while having similar benefits to massage therapy. It helps decrease pain, relieve muscle tension, reduce headaches, stimulates superficial circulation to the area, and improves lymphatic drainage.

Where did cupping originate from?

Cupping has an extensive history and is not exclusive to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Variations of this treatment were used by ancient Egyptians, North American Indians, early Greeks, and in other Asian and European countries. Cupping therapy was recommended by Hippocrates, the man whom many consider to be the “Father of Modern Medicine,” in his guide to clinical treatment.

Cupping works for patients with:

  • Flu
  • Colds
  • Coughs
  • Back and muscle pain
  • Poor circulation
  • Anxiety
  • Red itchy skin conditions
  • Allergies
  • Fevers
  • Aches and myriad other pains

Residual marks or bruising may occur. The extent of bruising depends on each person. Marks may stay for 3-7 days.