Therapeutics Stranraer

Cupping Therapy

CUPPING THERAPY

Cupping therapy is an ancient practice that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. These cups can be made of glass, plastic, or silicone. The suction is believed to improve blood flow, boost immune function, and reduce pain.

  1. History and Origins:

    • Cupping has roots in various ancient healing systems, including Chinese, Unani, traditional Korean, and Tibetan medicine.
    • The Eber’s papyrus from Ancient Egypt (1550 B.C.) mentions cupping therapy, and Greek physician Hippocrates also described cupping techniques.

  2. How It Works:

    • Practitioners place cups on the skin, creating suction. This is thought to balance the body’s energy (qi) and promote healing.
    • Cupping increases blood circulation, relieves muscle tension, and may help form new connective tissues.

  3. Benefits and Effects:

    • Cupping therapy has reported benefits for localized and systemic conditions.
    • Effects include promoting blood flow, changing skin properties, increasing pain thresholds, improving metabolism, and boosting immunity.

  4. Scientific Evidence:

      • Research supports cupping’s effects on blood flow and tissue stretching.
      • The activation of Heme oxygenase-1 gene may account for its health benefits.

A client presenting with pain will feel the difference after as little as 5 minutes after a cup has been applied.