CUPPING; More than skin deep
Cupping is an ancient bodywork therapy that uses suction to alleviate metabolic blockages in the tissue. Its mechanisms of action are similar to acupuncture in that it produces a change in the “microenvironment by skin stimulation” modulating signals that trigger a neuroendocrine immune system response. It breaks up scar tissue and adhesions in the muscles and promotes circulation and reduction of pain in fact, emerging evidence suggests cupping therapy may be responsible for increased release of endogenous opioids, the natural pain killers of the human body. What’s more is that the vasodilation achieved through cupping activates the parasympathetic nervous system enhancing muscle relaxation and improvement of function in affected areas. Thus, cupping can create better range of motion and decrease healing times for a variety of injuries and internal conditions. By increasing the amount of fluid moving in and out of the cells and decreasing the pressure in the capillaries, the therapeutic actions attributed to cupping include:
1.) Reducing tension in the muscles and decreasing pain and inflammation
2.) Breaking up scar tissue and cellulite
3.) Promoting the circulation of blood and lymph
4.) Improving immunity and decreasing healing time from upper respiratory infections
5.) Boosting skin health
6.) Promoting relaxation and sedation of the autonomic nervous system
Another theory suggests local irritation of the skin as a result of cupping may have an inhibitory effect on pain signals emanating from the brain and spinal cord. Research studies involving cupping for idiopathic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia, tension-type headache, irritable bowel syndrome and temporomandibular joint disorders have shown promising results . There is also evidence to suggest its benefit in the treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), however more research is needed to substantiate these claims. And while no single theory can explain the broad spectrum of its therapeutic effects, what’s clear is the benefits of cupping therapy are far reaching and the effects are much more than skin deep.
Conditions treated:
Chronic muscular tension, sprains/strains, headache, migraines, insomnia, anxiety, indigestion, PMS, high blood pressure, scar tissue buildup, URTI’s, joint pain and swelling, allergies, cellulite, fatigue, decreased ROM, poor circulation, spider veins, sluggish digestion, depression
