What You Should Know About the Ancient Art of Cupping
Many of us can remember when Michael Phelps competed in the 2016 Olympics, sporting very odd-looking red and purple circles on his back. These circles were a result of the traditional Chinese medicinal treatment called cupping. At the time, few people in western society were familiar with this treatment. However, there are quite a few health benefits that come with cupping. If you’re interested in this treatment, here are some things you should know about the ancient art of cupping.
What It Is
Cupping therapy is an ancient Chinese practice that’s popular in alternative medicine. You have likely seen those red circles on the backs of athletes and wondered how they appeared. The practice of cupping uses glass cups that a practitioner will apply to a patient’s back. There are a variety of methods, but the main aspect is to create a pressurized environment that draws the skin up. A practitioner will achieve this vacuum-like effect either by heating and cooling the air in the cup or through the use of a mechanical pump.
What It Does
One of the main things you should know about the ancient art of cupping is that many people use it as an alternative to medication. For the most part, people will seek cupping to increase blood circulation and reduce sciatica, shoulder pain, sports injuries, and arthritis. However, there’s no single theory that can explain the multiple therapeutic benefits that a cupping chiropractic service can provide.
What To Expect
If you’re interested in seeking this alternative treatment, then it’s useful to know what you will expect. Know that you’ll probably get those red circles and bruises too. Keep in mind that each practitioner will have different methods that they use. As such, the first thing you want to do upon finding a practitioner is to speak with them about the cupping method they work with. Ask them if they use heat or machinery for the suction. Thankfully, most practitioners will provide you with guidelines and a pre- and post-treatment plan so that you know exactly what to expect from it.