"Overview"
Cupping therapy is a method in which cups are used as tools to create negative pressure by removing air from the cup and applying it to the skin, with the help of lubricant on the rim and affected area. The cups are then moved back and forth on the affected area to produce erythema or congestion, as a means of preventing and treating diseases.
This therapy has evolved from ancient cupping therapy and is also known as sliding cupping therapy. It is widely used in modern times.
"Procedure"
Before cupping, a layer of lubricant such as Vaseline is applied to the skin or the rim of the cup. The cup is then placed on the skin. The practitioner holds the cup with the right hand, slightly tilts it, applies pressure on the back half of the rim, and slightly lifts the front half. The cup is moved in an upward, downward, left, right direction or in a clockwise or counterclockwise motion until the skin in the cupping area becomes flushed, congested, or shows bruising, before removing the cup.
Cupping therapy is generally divided into localized cupping and meridian cupping.
1. Localized cupping: It involves rotating and sliding the cup in a small range in the area around the affected area. For example, for rotator cuff tendinitis, slow clockwise and counterclockwise rotations can be performed on the shoulder.
2. Meridian cupping: It focuses on the meridians related to the affected area and involves a larger range of cupping along the meridians. For example, for lumbar muscle strain, cupping is done along the Governing Vessel and Bladder meridians that pass through the lower back in an up and down motion.
"Contraindications"
1. This method should not be used on skin with allergies, ulcers, edema, or areas with large blood vessels.
2. It should be used with caution in elderly and weak individuals with multiple health issues.
"Precautions"
1. Cupping therapy is suitable for areas with larger surface area and thicker muscles. Before cupping, lubricants such as Vaseline should be applied to the rim or the skin to facilitate movement and reduce pain. This also helps to prevent skin damage.
2. During cupping, the movements should be slow and the pressure should be evenly distributed. The cup should have a certain degree of tilt, with more pressure on the back half and slight lifting of the front half. This allows for greater resistance during movement in the upward, downward, front, back, left, and right directions.
3. Larger cups with round, thick, and smooth rims are preferred for cupping therapy. Glass cups are recommended.
"Comments"
This therapy has proven efficacy, especially for diseases in areas with larger surface area and thicker muscles, where other therapies may not be effective. However, due to the specific technique required and the discomfort experienced by patients during treatment, the cooperation between the doctor and the patient often becomes the key to achieving positive results.
