What is cupping?

This treatment, which was used in ancient times and is still used today, involves applying empty cups to a patient's skin and then pumping or vacuuming the air out of the cups, to draw the blood toward the surface, or even through it.

Cupping is a treatment modality used in traditional medical practices of many cultures. In Chinese medicine, it is often combined with acupuncture or moxabustion in order to address various conditions.

The most common use for cupping is for localized pain and musculoskeletal conditions. The cups are usually clear glass bulbs that the practitioner places on the body with the help of a flaming cotton ball or manual pump to create a vacuum and draw out pathogens from the skin. It is not uncommon to receive large red or blue skin blemishes after a treatment. These are normal and will subside within two to three days.

Cupping is an ancient Chinese therapy that can help relieve various kinds of pain. To learn more, watch this video featuring licensed acupuncturist and oriental medicine practitioner Dr. Henry McCann.

Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine technique used in conjunction with acupuncture to enhance its effect. In cupping, a glass or plastic cup is suctioned onto the body and kept in place for about 10 minutes. This stimulates circulation, relieves swelling, and enhances the acupuncture or electro-acupuncture.