Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine: What is Cupping?

The cupping therapy is a process by which the practitioner creates a vacuum inside of a small, glass cup adhered to the patient’s skin. The cup may then be moved over an area or simply left in place for a few minutes or longer. In this way, acupuncture points are stimulated through suction.

Cupping is designed to increase circulation and also relieve muscle tension and tightness. Many of our clients report that the sensation of cupping feels similar to receiving deep tissue massage and find it very soothing. Cupping may cause the skin to temporarily turn red/purple resembling a bruise, but will diminish faster than a real bruise might. This discoloration is a good response in some cases and is painless.

This is a great immune booster and can be dones several times a year before the season changes for maintenance along with Acupuncture treatment.