Cupping is an ancient Chinese practice in which glass cups are applied to the skin and a vacuum is created under the cup using heat. To create a vacuum a flame from a burning cotton ball held with forceps is placed in an upside-down cup. When the oxygen in the cup is exhausted, the flame is removed and the glass cup is placed directly on to the skin, where it is held in place by suction.

In some cases, a small amount of oil is first rubbed on the skin, which permits the cups to slide with ease, and the cup is moved while the suction of skin is active.

Cupping therapy stimulates micro blood circulation, lymph and Qi (pronounced “chee”) within the superficial muscle layers. Its uses include relieving sore muscles; especially back pain from stiffness tension or injury, neck pain and clearing congestion in the chest, which can occur with colds. It is mainly recommended for the treatment of pain, gastro-intestinal disorders, lung diseases (especially chronic cough and asthma), and paralysis, though it can be used for other disorders such as sciatica and menstrual cramps.

Cupping is applied by acupuncturists to certain acupuncture points, as well as to regions of the body that are affected by pain. It is usually used on its own, but can be combined with other therapies. There is no pain involved, and my patients report that is very relaxing.