CUPPING METHOD 拔罐

What is Cupping?

The Cupping Method of Acupuncture (also known as Cupping Therapy), is a form of alternative  medicine derived from ancient Chinese methods. This method creates a suction on the skin. Those who  practice this believe that the suction mobilizes blood flow, promoting healing. This suction is made  using heat or another chemical device. As a result, it creates a vacuum, gently pulling the skin upward. Known as one of the oldest methods of traditional Chinese medicine, Cupping dates back to the fourth  century. The cups were originally made out of animal horns. Today, the cup can range anywhere from  a thick glass to bamboo to pottery cups. Although glass methods are the most recommended and preferred material. 

Different Types of Cupping Methods

Here are just a few of the most common Cupping methods requested by Acupuncture patients:

Dry Cupping: This treatment involves the creation of a vacuum, bringing blood to a specific area,  balancing its circulation and healing. This frees tissue movement, making it easier to be pulled up into  the cupping glass.

Wet Cupping: Labeled as the more effective method, wet cupping used a lancet, in which the skin is  scraped and glass is placed over the area of that scraped skin. Blood is pulled upward into the glass cup  with the suction provided.

Fire Cupping: This treatment uses a cotton ball dipped in alcohol. When ignited, the cotton ball is  inserted inside the cup, evacuating any air within it, creating a vacuum. The ball is then taken out, the  cup placed back on the skin quickly. 

How Does It Work?

The cupping method involves glass cups, which are then warmed with a cotton-ball soaked in alcohol.  It is then placed upside on the patient's skin. The heat through the glass cups gently pulls the skin  upward. This is what happens when it creates a vacuum it is believed that drawing up the skin will  open up the pores, helping to stimulate and balance blood flow These glass cups are left on the skin from anywhere between 5 and 10 minutes. 

What are the Benefits of Cupping?

There are many benefits to the Cupping method of Acupuncture. Respiratory conditions have been a very common reason for patients in need of Cupping. It's value to a patient's lungs has been beneficial,  clearing up congestion and even controlling one's asthma condition. It's also beneficial for headaches,  menstrual pain, heart pain, stomach aches, heart burn, nerve pain and sore throats. 

The benefits of cupping are caused by its stimulating and strengthening capabilities. And while Cupping  can't completely heal traumatic injuries it can, however, promote quicker recovery, especially for those  in the healing process from injuries, such as broken bones, torn muscles and joint pains.