Cupping Therapy : What is it and who can benefit from it?

Cupping Therapy is a Traditional Chinese Medicine technique that involves using specialized cups that act as suctions to pull some skin inside the cup. In terms of Chinese Medicine we are working at reducing "stagnation" in an area which causes pain, swelling, masses/tumours. The conditions that benefit from cupping include, but are not limited to, musculoskeletal conditions, skin issues, detoxification, respiratory conditions, and even cellulite. At the same time, we are working at relaxing the nervous system which makes cupping wonderful for anxiety and even high blood pressure. Cups can benefit up to 4 inches below the skin! Cups can be left in place or they can be "moved", the latter being a more aggressive treatment.

Cupping can be used as a stand alone treatment or in combination with acupuncture. I often do a combo of both, even placing a cup over top of an acupuncture needle in cases of a lot of stagnation. 

Cupping does not hurt! It feels like a minor tug to the skin. Treatments are anywhere from 15-30 minutes in length. The amount of treatments required varies depending on the condition. I often see patients get benefit from a single treatment! Cups may leave a circular bruise that can last up to a week.

I recommend to patients who are seeing other bodywork practitioners, especially chiropractors , to get cupping done before as the adjustments will be easier. 

Cupping has become one of my favourite tools in my toolbox. If you want to talk more about cupping or naturopathic medicine contact the clinic and book a free 15 minute consultation with me to learn more. 

To your good health,

Dr. Klatt