cupping therapy

Question 1

what is the history of cupping

Answer 1

• known as ‘hijama’ in traditional illamic medicine
• placing cups of glass, bamboo or plastic on skin to create suction and facilitate flow of blood and energy
• origins: china, used as method of bloodletting to balance !

Question 2

what are the tools used in dry cupping

Answer 2

• fire cupping: flame on cup to heat air inside then placed on skin to create vacuum
• manual cupping: handheld pump
• silicone/plastic cups: squeezed to create vacuum

Question 3

what is wet cupping

Answer 3

• ‘hijama’ in islamic medicine
• small incisions are made on skin and cups are reapplied (after dry cupping) to draw out small amount of blood and other body fluids
• supposed to remove toxins and improve circulation

Question 4

what are the health benefits of cupping

Answer 4

• pain relief: relax muscles, reduce inflammation, improve blood flow to area
• stress reduction : deeply relaxing
• detoxification: eliminate toxins and waste by promoting blood circulation and lymph drainage
• improved circulation: better cardiovascular health and good delivery of o2 and nutrients to tissues
• treats skin conditions like acne, eczema and cellulite by improving blood flow and stimulating the skin

Question 5

what are the diverse cupping therapy applications

Answer 5

• traditional chinese medicine (TCM): balance bodys Qi and treat cold, coughs and pain associated w stagnation of energy or blood
• sports medicine: relieve muscle soreness, enhance flexibility, promote faster recovery
• pain management: for fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and tension headaches
• respiratory health: alleviate asthma, bronchitis and chest congestion by improving lung function and reducing inflammation
• digestive disorders: IBS and idigestion by promoting better circulation and relaxation
• toxicity: body detox bc of good blood flow through lymphatic

Question 6

describe what the cupping bruise colors mean

Answer 6

• red/pink: most common, improved blood circulation, positive, fades fast
• dark red/purple: significant stagnation or congestion, chronic pain muscle tension or other issues, fades in few days
• brown or black: old stagnant blood or toxins released from deeper tissues, chronic pain, several days/weeks to fade
• yellow green: prescence of toxins, lymphatic congestion, infection, clearing waste
• no change color: perfectly normal, improve circulation and muscle tension w/o releasing toxins
• red dots: signs of toxicitiy

Question 7

instructions for cupping

Answer 7

1. prep are w swedish or deep tissue
2. place cup w 1 pump, drag cup, check in
3. repeat placing cup along places w tension
4. dont leave on for longer than 5 mins

Question 8

safety considerations for cupping

Answer 8

• skin sensitvity: damaged skin, open wounds or skin infections should avoid cupping therapy
• bruising and discomfort: temporary bruising, swelling and discomfort, subside in few days
• med conditions
• pregnancy and breastfeeding should consult healthcare providers beforehand