Cupping is a folk remedy that has been widely used for a long period of time. In the beginning, it was predominantly used to treat surgical diseases such as localized blood coagulation or bruising and pustules, but nowadays the application of cupping extends to internal diseases.

In the past, ox horns and bowls were used in cupping, but as it developed, the cups were made from a variety of sources, such as bamboo, porcelain, and glass.

How does cupping work?

Cupping therapy uses suction and decompression from a cup to pull and manipulate skin and fascia. It’s similar to a deep-tissue massage and can help improve blood flow and circulation. Depending on the treatment, the practitioner will place heated cups on certain parts of your back or your entire back to draw the skin and connective tissue into the cup.

Some patients may experience bruising or irritation of the skin after a cupping session, but these tend to go away after a short period of time. Dr. Ko generally uses glass cups in his cupping therapies. These are sturdier and more precise than other types of cups, and are easier to sterilize between uses.

What conditions does cupping treat?

If you are experiencing chronic pain or muscle aches, Dr. Ko may prescribe cupping alongside acupuncture and herbal medicine treatments. It may be able to help certain skin conditions, breathing problems, and digestion issues, but Dr. Ko tends to use cupping for pain relief.

If you have fragile skin or are on blood thinners, cupping may not be appropriate for you. Make an appointment at 120 Acupuncture Clinic today to find out which therapies can best treat your condition.