Richard Lamb M B C. c.eCupping Therapy has been used by many people throughout history with records dating as far back as the ancient Egyptians, Chinese and Middle Eastern cultures.
Glass cups are often favoured, as they are strong, durable and allow the acupuncturist to see the skin during the treatment. By using change in heat or by suctioning out air the pressure in the cup is reduced creating a vacuum which sticks the cup sticks tightly to the skin.
Several cups may be placed on a patient during the session and will be left in place from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.
While cupping is considered to be safe it does usually cause some swelling and bruising on the skin. These small circular bruises on the areas where the cups were applied are usually painless and disappear within a several days