Cupping refers to an ancient Chinese practice in which a cup is applied to the skin and the pressure in the cup is reduced (by using change in heat or by suctioning out air), so that the skin and superficial muscle layer is drawn into and held in the cup.  In some cases, the cup may be moved while the suction of skin is active, causing a regional pulling of the skin and muscle (the technique is called gliding cupping).

Cupping is applied by acupuncturists to certain acupuncture points, as well as to regions of the body that are affected by pain (where the pain is deeper than the tissues to be pulled).

How does it works?

Movement of the cups is a gentle technique, still, a small surface of circular bruising marks is expected both from fixed position cupping and with movement of the cups. It is due to the skin under a cup is drawn up and the blood vessels at the surface of the skin expand. Drawing up the skin is believed to open up the skin’s pores, which helps to stimulate the flow of blood, balances and realigns the flow of qi, breaks up obstructions, and creates an avenue for toxins to be drawn out of the body.

The colour of the marks represents the blood circulation situation of the patient’s body. Usually a dark purple mark means a bad blood circulation, while a pink one represents good blood circulation. These bruises are usually painless, however, and disappear within a few days of treatment.

Cupping is a technique that promotes blood circulation, remove stasis, and alleviate swelling and pain.  It is employed especially when there is a toxic heat syndrome and for a variety of acute ailments.