Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which local suction is created on the skin using mechanical ‘cups’, mobilising blood flow in order to promote healing.
FAQs
There haven’t been many scientific studies on cupping, but it has been claimed that it drains excess fluids and toxins, loosens adhesions and revitalises connective tissue, increases blood flow to skin and muscles, stimulates the peripheral nervous system, reduces pain, helps regulate pressure and modulate the immune system.
People have found cupping helpful with:
- Blood disorders such as anaemia and haemophilia
- Rheumatic diseases such as arthritis and fibromyalgia
- Fertility and gynaecological disorders
- Skin problems such as eczema and acne
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Migraine
- Anxiety and depression
- Bronchial congestion caused by allergies and asthma
- Varicose veins
Supporters also believe that cupping therapy can reduce pain and inflammation throughout the body, and that it can promote mental and physical relaxation and wellbeing.
Cupping should not be performed directly on veins, arteries, nerves, skin inflammation, any skin lesion, body orifices, eyes, lymph nodes, or varicose veins. Cupping is also contraindicated on open wounds, bone fractures and sites of deep vein thrombosis.
Please ask if you are unsure. And if you think you may be pregnant, let your therapist know.
Through either heat or suction, the skin is gently drawn upwards by creating a vacuum in a cup over the target area of the skin. The cup stays in place for five to fifteen minutes while you relax. Cupping is a bit like the inverse of massage – rather than applying pressure to muscles, it uses gentle pressure to pull them upward. For most patients, this is a relaxing and relieving sensation.
Your first treatment will usually be 60 minutes, including a full confidential consultation.
Further treatments can be booked for 30, 45, 60 or 90 minutes, depending on your needs.
Cupping is generally comfortable and soothing when performed by trained health professionals. Potential side effects include, mild discomfort, mild burns and bruising.