MOD005 – Acupuncture – Cupping Therapy

Definition:

Cupping therapy is a traditional healing practice that involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. This suction is believed to mobilise blood flow, promote healing, relieve pain and tension, and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.

Explanation:

Cupping therapy is based on the principle of stimulating the body’s natural healing response by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and releasing toxins and stagnation from the tissues. The suction created by the cups is thought to:

1. Increase blood flow to the area, bringing oxygen and nutrients to promote healing
2. Relax muscles and fascia, reducing tension and pain
3. Stimulate the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of toxins
4. Promote a sense of relaxation and well-being

Cupping can be performed using various types of cups, including:

• Glass cups (traditionally used with fire to create suction)
• Silicone cups (which can be easily squeezed to create suction)
• Plastic cups (often used with a hand pump to create suction)

There are different techniques in cupping therapy:

1. Stationary cupping: Cups are left in place for several minutes
2. Sliding cupping: Cups are moved across the skin in a massage-like technique
3. Flash cupping: Cups are quickly applied and removed in succession
4. Wet cupping: Involves making small incisions in the skin before applying the cups

Cupping is often used to address various conditions, including:

• Muscle pain and tension
• Back and neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Respiratory conditions
• Digestive issues
• Skin conditions

Many people find cupping therapy to be relaxing and beneficial, reporting improvements in pain, mobility, and overall well-being. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects, cupping remains a popular complementary therapy in many parts of the world.

Evidence to Efficacy:

There is growing evidence demonstrating the potential efficacy of cupping therapy for various health conditions:

Pain management: A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the British Medical Journal Open found that cupping therapy significantly reduced pain intensity and improved functional status in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain. The study reported clinically relevant effects that persisted at 3 and 6 months follow-up.

Musculoskeletal disorders: Research from the University of Southampton showed that cupping was effective in improving symptoms associated with various musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain and neck pain. Participants reported reduced pain intensity and improved physical function after cupping treatments.

Fibromyalgia: A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine demonstrated that cupping therapy can be beneficial for individuals with fibromyalgia. Participants reported reduced pain intensity and improved quality of life after receiving cupping treatments.

Respiratory disorders: Research has shown promising results for cupping therapy in managing respiratory conditions. A study from the University of Nottingham found that cupping improved lung function and reduced symptoms in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Overall wellbeing: A survey conducted by the British Cupping Society found that patients reported improvements in overall wellbeing, including better sleep, reduced stress, and enhanced quality of life after receiving cupping therapy.

Sports performance: Research published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies demonstrated that cupping interventions were beneficial for athletes, showing improvements in range of motion, muscle recovery, and overall performance.

These studies highlight the potential of cupping therapy as a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. As research in this field continues to grow, we are gaining a deeper understanding of how cupping can support overall health and complement other therapeutic approaches. The non-invasive nature of cupping therapy makes it an attractive option for those seeking natural approaches to improving their health and quality of life.

Governing Body:

While there is no single regulatory body for cupping therapists in the UK, several organisations provide training, certification, and oversight for cupping therapy practice. Here are some key bodies and organisations involved:

British Cupping Society: Offers training courses in cupping therapy. Promotes safe and effective cupping practices. Provides a network for cupping practitioners

Core Elements: Offers accredited CPD courses in dry cupping for sports massage therapists and other healthcare professionals. Courses are accredited by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) and the Sports Therapy Organisation

Essential Thyme: Offers fully accredited Cupping Massage Courses. Provides certification upon completion of theory and practical components

It’s important to note that while these organisations offer training and certification, cupping therapy is not currently regulated as a distinct healthcare profession in the UK.

What Good Looks Like:

Here’s what a good experience should look like for you:

Clear explanation: Your practitioner will explain the procedure, including what to expect and any potential side effects. They’ll answer any questions you may have.

Personalised approach: The therapist will assess your specific needs and tailor the treatment, accordingly, selecting appropriate areas for cupping based on your condition.

Skilled application: You’ll experience the practitioner’s expertise as they apply the cups with precision. The suction should feel firm but not painful.

Varied techniques: Depending on your needs, you might experience different cupping methods such as stationary, moving, or flash cupping.

Sensation awareness: You’ll feel a strong suction on your skin as the cups are applied. This may feel intense but shouldn’t be painful. You might also experience a warm or tingling sensation.

Relaxation: As the treatment progresses, you should feel a sense of relaxation spreading through your body. Many people find the process deeply soothing.

Treatment duration: The cups will typically remain in place for 5-10 minutes, though this can vary based on your specific treatment plan.

Aftercare: Once the cups are removed, your practitioner should gently massage the treated areas to help disperse any marks and promote blood flow.

Immediate effects: After the session, you should feel a sense of relief or relaxation in the treated areas. You might notice improved mobility or reduced pain, depending on your initial concerns.

Remember, a truly good cupping therapy experience should leave you feeling cared for, relaxed, and experiencing some immediate benefit, even if it’s just a sense of overall wellbeing.

What to Ask a Practitioner:

Here are some key questions to help you choose an exceptional cupping therapy practitioner, along with desired answers:

How do you tailor your cupping approach to individual clients’ needs?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who emphasises personalisation, mentioning how they assess each client’s specific concerns, health history, and body type. They should discuss adapting cup placement, suction strength, and treatment duration based on the individual.

Can you describe your process for assessing where to place the cups?

Desired answer: An exceptional practitioner should explain a thorough assessment method, including palpation, visual inspection, and consideration of your reported symptoms. They might mention using traditional diagnostic techniques or modern anatomical knowledge to inform cup placement.

What specific cupping techniques do you use, and how do you decide which to apply?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who can confidently discuss various techniques such as stationary cupping, moving cupping, and flash cupping. They should explain how they choose techniques based on your specific needs and treatment goals.

How do you integrate cupping with other aspects of health and wellbeing?

Desired answer: An exceptional practitioner should demonstrate a holistic understanding, discussing how cupping can complement other therapies or lifestyle changes. They might offer advice on diet, exercise, or stress management to enhance the effects of cupping.

Can you explain how you determine the appropriate level of suction for each client?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who emphasises safety and comfort, explaining how they assess your skin’s response and adjust suction accordingly. They should mention factors like your pain tolerance, skin sensitivity, and the area being treated.

Remember, an exceptional cupping therapy practitioner should make you feel heard, respected, and comfortable throughout the entire process, while demonstrating a deep understanding of both traditional and modern cupping principles.

Related Therapies:

Massage Therapy (MOD097): This hands-on therapy involves manipulating the body’s soft tissues to relieve tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. It can enhance the effects of Reiki by addressing physical discomfort and improving circulation.

Acupuncture (MOD007): A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow (Qi) and promote healing. Acupuncture can complement Reiki by addressing energetic blockages.

Acupressure (MOD003): A therapeutic tool with thousands of plastic spikes that stimulate acupressure points to relieve pain and promote relaxation.

Reflexology (MOD141): A practice involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears.

Myofascial Release (MOD095): A soft tissue therapy for the treatment of skeletal muscle immobility and pain.

Chiropractic Care (MOD029): A healthcare profession focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine, using manual adjustments and other techniques to improve function and alleviate pain.

Moxibustion (MOD006): Involves burning moxa (a type of dried herb) near or on the skin to warm and stimulate acupuncture points.