(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
With the Summer Olympics in Rio, has come a lot of questions about the strange circular bruises on many of the Olympians, particularly Michael Phelps. While these bruises may seem peculiar to some, they are actually the result from a traditional Chinese medicine therapy called cupping.
What is Cupping?
With cupping, special cups are either heated, or used in combination with a vacuum or rubber pump, in order to create a vacuum seal, which are then placed on top of the skin, over the muscles for 5 to 10 minutes. By creating this suction between the cup and the skin, the pressure will draw the blood to the surface of the skin, breaking capillaries, and ultimately releasing pain in the muscles and aiding in the healing and recovery of sore muscles.
What are the Benefits of Cupping Therapy?
While cupping is most commonly used to ease muscle pain, there are a variety of other conditions that cupping can be used to treat, including:
- Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia
- Blood Disorders, such as Anemia and Hemophilia
- Skin Conditions, such as Acne and Eczema
- Anxiety and Depression
- Allergies and Asthma
- Fertility Issues
- High Blood Pressure
- Migraines
- Back Pain
Chinese medical practitioners also believe that cupping can help open up the channels of qi, or the body’s life force.
Does Cupping Work?
As with other alternative therapies, there are many people who are skeptical when it comes to cupping. However, there are many people who truly believe cupping has helped them. From athletes, to cancer patients, to headache sufferers, to movie stars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston, cupping has become a great alternative to treating a variety of conditions.
Interested in learning how cupping therapy can help you with your aches and pains? Visit our Facebook page for more tips and client testimonials or give us a call at 815.788.8383!