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The World of Traditional Chinese Cupping Therapy

If someone hears the words “cupping therapy”, they typically think of bruising or something that won’t help a medical issue; however, Chinese medical specialists use cupping therapy to relieve muscle pain that has become chronic. It’s most definitely something that goes hand in hand with acupuncture and serves as a natural way to stimulate happiness and harmony within your muscles, as well as pain relief.

How Cupping Therapy Works

Sometimes, you may hear the words “fire cupping” instead of cupping therapy because there is some sort of flame that the cup needs to be exposed to in order for the procedure to become completed. The practitioner takes the cotton ball and puts it on fire, while inserting it into the cup for up to 3 seconds. In doing so, this reduces the oxygen within and leaves a vacuum type effect.

Once the flame is removed from the glass cup, it’s then placed on your body and will stick to the skin very well. Of course, those that are more skilled will adjust the suction level depending on your needs and your body; however, only the most skilled are successful at doing this easily.

You can expect the cup to be suctioned to the area anywhere from 8 to 15 minutes at a time and can be moved over the fatigued or pained muscle. Typically, this method is called “walking cups”, and is like a sort of massage along the meridian pathway.

The areas of the body that the glass cups are usually used on include hairless areas that are muscular and go over large parts. It’s not uncommon for someone to shave this area in order for the treatment to work successfully. The cupping can penetrate up to 10cm below the top layer of the skin, and a skilled practitioner can use the technique of “walking” to ensure a smooth glide.

Why Westerners Shy Away from Cupping

It’s no secret that people are scared of cupping simply because of the bruises that may follow on the back afterwards. It’s worth noting that these “bruises” are actually not bruises; however, they are mere discoloration. Bruising is typically defined as some sort of trauma to the blood vessels. The blood from the vessels leaking go towards the skin and cause this discoloration, and the area can be quite tender; however, discoloration from cupping is simply the toxins being pulled out from the suction and pushing stagnant blood to the surface of the skin. These discolorations aren’t painful like bruises can be and are typically flushed within a few days after the treatment.

The waste that is pulled from the muscles are flushed out of the body and provide the patient with a less painful lifestyle since the muscles aren’t suffering. After the first cupping treatment, discoloration fades a bit and blood circulation tends to be better, since the toxins are being removed during cupping.

If you or someone you know is interested in a natural remedy for muscle fatigue and pain, you may want to try the traditional Chinese method of cupping. Contact Pro Motion Healthcare at 705-315-0111 today to get started.

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