Chinese Medicine – Cupping Therapy

As a Chinese medicine practitioner, cupping therapy is part of my toolkit and can be used if a client wishes to try this treatment.

In theory, and according to my clinical experience, cupping can move stagnation in the body tissues and help alleviate pain, particularly when the musculature of the back and shoulders has become tight and tender. Its like having an amazing massage that pulls the stagnation out. When the vertebrae in the neck become compressed, or there is long term tension in the neck and shoulders, then an inflammatory response can result – where the whole of the upper back feels tense and tissues feel hardened to touch. The body tries to protect itself and the muscles become more and more tight.

In this situation I might consider cupping as part of the therapy regime, alongside other approaches, which potentially help the body release stress and tension. Cupping is a great supportive or adjunct therapy. Its like working from the outside in and the inside out, with the root treatment approaches that aim to address the underlying problems – supporting the body to let go of tension in a way that is safe.

What is cupping?

Cupping means creating a temporary vacuum – this can be done using a flame technique but in modern times a vacuum pump is used to suck the air out of the cup. There are contraindications and its best to see a professional for cupping – also hard to reach your back!

Please give me a call or send an email if you would like to discuss cupping therapy and how it might be used in your case.