WHAT IS CUPPING THERAPY?

Cupping is a traditional practice in which cups are placed on the skin to create suction. It has been used for centuries in many cultures – including traditional Chinese, Middle Eastern (where it is known as hijama) and European practice – and today it is offered by many massage and sports therapists.

The British Cupping Society describes cupping as a therapy that uses local suction to mobilise blood flow. Research into cupping is ongoing: some small studies have reported benefits, for example for persistent lower back pain [1], but the overall evidence is still limited and more high-quality research is needed.

How cupping works

Cups are placed on the skin and a vacuum is created inside them, gently drawing the skin and underlying tissue upwards. The cups may be left in place for a few minutes or, after the skin has been oiled, slid along the body in a technique similar to massage. While massage presses down on the muscles, cupping uses suction to lift them – which is why it is sometimes described as a “reverse massage”.

A practitioner will decide how strong the suction should be and how long the cups stay in place, taking into account the person’s age, general health and comfort.

Types of cupping

• Fire cupping – heat is used briefly inside a glass cup to create the vacuum. This should only be carried out by trained practitioners.
• Water cupping – a small amount of warm water is used inside the cup.
• Suction (vacuum) cupping – a hand pump or electric device creates the suction. This is the most practical method for home use and is the type used by the cupping sets we sell.

What to expect afterwards

Cupping often leaves round marks on the skin where the cups were placed. These are caused by the suction and usually fade within a few days to two weeks. The area may feel a little sensitive for a day or two. In traditional Chinese medicine, these marks are known as “sha”.

To remove a cup, break the seal gently by pressing the skin beside the rim with a finger. Never pull a cup straight off, as strong suction can damage the skin.

Why people use cupping

Many people use cupping as part of a massage, sports therapy or relaxation routine, and some find it helps them feel looser and more relaxed. Practitioners often combine it with other techniques such as deep tissue and sports massage.

When to avoid cupping

Cupping is not suitable for everyone. Speak to a doctor or qualified practitioner before trying cupping – and avoid it – if any of the following apply:

• Kidney (renal) failure or heart failure
• Severe swelling (oedema) or fluid build-up in the abdomen (ascites)
• Skin ulcers, broken or damaged skin, or allergic dermatitis
• A high fever
• Hernias
• A bleeding disorder, or if you take blood-thinning medication
• Pregnancy – in particular, the abdomen, inner legs and lower back should be avoided

A bit of history

Cupping has a long history. The medical journal The Lancet takes its name from the lancet – a small blade that was historically used in procedures such as bloodletting and wet cupping [2].

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always follow the instructions supplied with your cupping set, and consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have a medical condition or are unsure whether cupping is right for you.

References

[1] Hanan S., Eman S. Cupping therapy (Al-Hijama): its impact on persistent non-specific lower back pain and client disability. Life Science Journal, 2013;10:631–642.
[2] Qureshi N.A. et al. History of cupping (Hijama): a narrative review of literature. Journal of Integrative Medicine, May 2017, Vol. 15, No. 3.