ZONELEADER ACUPUNCTURE & CHINESE MEDICINE CLINIC
Cupping Therapy
Relax, Release, Renew
What Is Cupping Therapy?
Cupping is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy that may be used alongside acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine or Tui Na massage. It involves placing specially designed cups on selected areas of the body and creating gentle suction.
Cupping has been practised in Chinese medicine for centuries, with traditional cups made from materials such as bamboo, ceramic and glass. Today, practitioners commonly use glass cups or plastic cups with a suction pump, depending on the treatment approach.
Traditionally, cupping is understood within the framework of Chinese medicine and may be used as part of an individualised approach to areas of muscular tension, discomfort and physical wellbeing. Cupping may be used on its own or combined with acupuncture or Tui Na massage where appropriate.
How Does Cupping Work?
During a cupping treatment, your practitioner places cups on selected areas of the body and creates suction within the cups. The suction gently lifts the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. Depending on the treatment approach, the cups may be left in place for a period of time (stationary cupping) or gently moved across the skin (moving or mobile cupping). For moving cupping, a small amount of oil may be applied to the skin to allow the cup to glide smoothly.
The number of cups, level of suction and length of time they remain in place may vary according to your individual needs. Within the TCM framework, cupping is understood to influence the flow of Qi and Blood in the areas being treated. Your practitioner will select the treatment areas according to your individual assessment and the approach discussed with you.
What Does Cupping Feel Like?
Cupping usually creates a feeling of gentle pulling or pressure as the skin is drawn into the cup. Some people find the sensation relaxing, while others may notice a stronger pulling sensation. With moving or mobile cupping, the cup is gently moved across the skin, creating a sensation that can feel similar to a massage.
The experience can vary depending on the area being treated, the amount of suction used and individual sensitivity. Your practitioner can adjust the treatment if the sensation becomes uncomfortable.
What About the Marks After Cupping?
Cupping can leave temporary circular marks on the skin. These may range from light redness to darker red or purple discolouration, depending on factors such as the strength of the suction, the area treated and individual skin sensitivity. From a TCM perspective, the appearance of the marks may also be considered in relation to an individual’s Qi and Blood.
The marks will gradually fade, although the time this takes varies from person to person. Where relevant, the appearance of the marks may be considered alongside your symptoms, health history and other findings as part of the overall TCM assessment.
What Can Cupping Be Used For?
People may choose cupping as part of their care for a range of physical and wellbeing concerns. Depending on your individual circumstances, it may be considered for muscular tension, neck and shoulder discomfort, back discomfort, muscle and joint concerns, relaxation and general wellbeing.
Whether cupping is appropriate will depend on your individual circumstances, health history and other healthcare treatments. Your practitioner will discuss your concerns with you and consider whether cupping is suitable as part of your care.
Cupping and Other Chinese Medicine Therapies
Cupping can be incorporated into a broader Chinese medicine treatment where appropriate. Depending on your individual needs, this may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage or other traditional Chinese medicine therapies. Your practitioner will discuss any additional therapies with you and explain how they may fit into your individual care.
Is Cupping Safe?
Cupping is generally well tolerated when performed by a suitably trained practitioner using appropriate hygiene and infection-control procedures. Temporary skin discolouration is a common effect of cupping. Some people may also experience temporary tenderness or sensitivity in the treated area.
Before treatment, please let your practitioner know about any relevant health conditions, pregnancy, medications or other healthcare treatments. This helps us determine whether cupping is appropriate for you and tailor your care accordingly.
Interested in Cupping Therapy?
If you would like to learn more about cupping or discuss whether it may be appropriate for you, please get in touch.
Service Areas
📍Located in Coombabah, we provide care for clients across the Gold Coast, including Runaway Bay, Biggera Waters, Labrador, Paradise Point, Helensvale, Hope Island, Oxenford, Arundel, Southport, Parkwood, Coomera, Pacific Pines and surrounding suburbs. We also welcome clients who visit from interstate and overseas.