CUPPING

Cupping is a form of traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern medicine. People have practiced cupping therapy for thousands of years. Suction from cupping draws fluid into the treated area. This suction force expands and breaks open tiny blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin. Your body treats the cupping area like an injury. It sends more blood to the area to stimulate the natural healing process. Some people theorize that cupping clears the pores and releases toxins.

Most providers use glass or plastic cups, but cups may be:

• Bamboo
• Ceramic
• Metal
• Silicone

People mostly use cupping to relieve conditions that cause pain. Some people say it also helps with chronic (ongoing) health issues.