Cupping therapy is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing massage choices and is taking the world by storm. It is hard to fathom that it has been existence of centuries.
What is cupping therapy?
According to the reputable health and wellness publication Cleveland Clinic, cupping therapy is an ancient healing method that may ease back pain, neck pain, headaches and other issues.
The manner in which this is achieved is through its ability to create a suction to pull on your skin and increase blood flow to the affected area.
Furthermore, Pubmed explains that the introduction of this technique dates back centuries.
“This therapy was practiced by the Egyptians and Macedonians around 5500 years ago, and Egyptians later introduced this method to the Greeks. Cupping therapy was documented and endorsed in diverse civilizations, including China and Rome, as well as within the collective traditions (hadiths) of the Prophet Muhammad during the initial 6 centuries of the Common Era,” explains the above-mentioned publication.
The types of cups used include:
- Bamboo
- Ceramic
- Metal
- Silicone
Despite its growing popularity in multiple countries around the world, there continues to be mixed reviews and opinions regarding this massage technique.
However there are several pros and cons that come with choosing this option.
Below is a list of both as highlighted by Cleveland Clinic.
Benefits:
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Decreases muscle tightness
- Improves blood flow
- Increases range of motion
Risks:
- Bruising
- Burns from heated cups
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle tension or soreness
- Nausea
- Skin infections, itching or scarring
It is highly recommended to speak to a medical professional before attempting to go with this option.
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