It is rather simplistic, but the results can be major.
This technique involves using glass or plastic cups to create a vacuum seal. The vacuum that pulls the skin is believed to literally suck out the toxins in the body. This likely sounds uncomfortable and it does look uncomfortable, but the process actually relieves pain and discomfort.
The cups used are strategically placed over acupuncture points, or just directly above the pained muscle. The cups are left in place for five to 15 minutes when used for pain relief. As the cups are in place, the back is massaged.
Pain comes in many forms. Massage cupping therapy is most often associated with muscle pain, and while it is greatly beneficial for this, it is far from the only pain that this technique can help with. The following types of pain can be benefited by this therapy:
The above types of pain are greatly helped by massage cupping alone. However, many practitioners also recommend Chinese herbs and consuming a lot of water to be done along with cupping to further promote the healing process. Acupuncture may also be used along with this therapy to further encourage healing and pain relief.
The belief is that this therapy warms the qi, dispels dampness and reduces swelling. As the skin is in a vacuum state, blood rushes the area. The tissues are softened and the toxins in that area are released. This helps to encourage circulation in both the lymph vessels and blood vessels.
Many people describe how cupping feels as both deeply relaxing and warm. Stubborn muscle knots and rigid soft tissues are released. Muscles that are painful and contracted are relieved. Within just a few minutes, the muscles will start to relax, and therefore, the pain starts to alleviate.
This therapy is both safe and effective. However, there are a few things that should not be mixed with this therapy. One thing that could interfere with the effectiveness of this therapy is excess body hair. Shaving the area would help to solve this issue.
This therapy also may not be as effective on places on the body with sharp angles because the cups may not be able to create as good as a vacuum as they normally do. Those who are pregnant, have ulcerated sores on the skin, have a fever, have cramps, have convulsions or allergic skin conditions should avoid this therapy.