The Benefit of Cupping Massage

Written by: Naomi Kornelsen  BSc, CAT(C) 
                  Athletic Therapist

Cupping massage is an ancient Chinese treatment that was originally used to help promote healing by applying cups to the body in order to realign one's Chi. Cups can be made from glass, bamboo or silicone and are placed on the body for 5-10 minutes or until the skin starts to redden.
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There are two different types of cupping, wet cupping and dry cupping. Wet cupping is done by placing a cup on one's skin to create a suction and draw blood towards the skins surface.

Then the cups are removed and a scalpel is used to make tiny cuts on the skin after which suction is then placed over the area once again and small amounts of blood are drawn out. This method is thought to promote the removal of toxins from the body.

Dry cupping is the more popular method of cupping in North America and is done without the removal of blood. The traditional form of cupping is done by having a flammable substance, for example paper, placed inside the cup and then lit on fire.

Once the fire is extinguished the cup is turned upside down and placed on the skin. As the air cools inside the cup a suction is formed and the skin is pulled into the cup and blood is drawn towards the skin. The modern version of cupping is done by using a plastic or glass cup and a pump in order to create the suction.

Cupping is used for:

• Pain relief
• Muscle recovery
• Blood flow
• Fascia tightness and restrictions
• Toxin removal

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After treatment you may notice markings on your skin. These are often thought to be bruises, and although they have similar looks, they do not bring about the tenderness that a bruise does. The mark that is left behind after a cupping session is actually an ecchymosis mark. Essentially, this is old blood that has been sitting for a while that is being drawn to the surface to allow for the flow of new blood to come through the area of treatment. This allows toxins to be drawn out, broken down and removed from the body. Ecchymosis marks last anywhere from 2-7 days usually but can vary depending on length of treatment.

There are not many known risks with cupping as it is relatively safe although it should be avoided over any herniated discs or if you have taken blood thinners in the previous 24-48 hours. Caution should be used if treating over any varicose or spider veins. If you have any doubts, consult with a professional before beginning treatments.

If you have any further questions or are interested in learning more about cupping and how it can work for you, email: [email protected] for more information and to book your next cupping session.
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