Cupping is a therapy used to treat back, neck, shoulder and other musculoskeletal pain.
Using heat, a vaccum is created which adheres the cups firmly to the skin. The cups then either remain stationary, or
the practitioner will slide them on and around the problem area. This increases circulation, improving the flow of blood
and lymph to the area and promoting the healing process.
Cupping is a very effective treatment for painful, stiff or spasmed muscles. It
is also helpful for lower respiratory complaints such as cough and congestion from colds, flu or bronchitis. Although
it can be used on its own, cupping is usually done in conjunction with acupuncture.
A normal side effect of cupping is bruising or redness to the area, which can take up to a week to disappear.
Cupping therapy has been gaining in popularity in recent years. In 2004 the CBS
News Early Show did a feature on it. Click on the link below for the video and story:
Cupping Therapy on CBS News
