Health Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Health Benefits of Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy (CT) is an ancient method and currently used in the treatment of a broad range of medical conditions. As alternative medicine, it is primarily used in Asia, but it is also used in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Cupping therapy uses suction to draw blood to or away from specific areas of your body to help relieve conditions that cause pain. Cupping may ease the symptoms of headaches and migraines, high blood pressure, asthma and other breathing issues, carpal tunnel syndrome, gastrointestinal disorders, arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, neck pain, knee pain and shoulder pain. Cupping therapy may also help with infertility and menstrual cramps.
Typically, acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, medical doctors and physical therapists received training to perform cupping therapy.
People who’ve had cupping therapy reported that it improves blood flow, decreases muscle tightness, increases range of motion, and reduces pain and inflammation.
Cupping therapy may also help prevent cardiovascular diseases, reduce cholesterol, remove toxins in the body, stimulate your peripheral nervous system and promote relaxation. There is mixed evidence on the effectiveness of cupping therapy and more research is needed.
Cupping therapy is recommended as a complimentary medicine treatment in combination with traditional Western medicine.
Cupping therapy may have some side effects, including bruising, burns from heated cups, nausea, skin infections, itching or scarring, headaches and or fatigue. In rare cases, you may experience fainting, after a drop in your blood pressure and heart rate.
You should avoid cupping therapy if you have a pacemaker, anemia, cardiovascular disease, bleeding disorders, blood clotting problems such as DVT or a history of strokes, skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, and or seizures.
As always, consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cupping_therapy