An old-world therapeutic approach used by many cultures around the world that is primarily used and effective in soft tissue pain relief in combination with acupuncture.
Using small glass jars or pneumonic glass cups, a suction or vacuum seal is created on the skin via a pneumonic device or with fire. We are targeting the fascia layer which is the “plastic wrap” that encases all of our muscles. Part of what creates the feeling of pain in a muscle or other soft tissue is a reduction in blood circulation or what we refer to as stagnation. The suction aims to pull the fascia up and away thereby increasing blood circulation into the muscle, relieving tension and discomfort, and increasing range of motion as well as improving the metabolic process.
Cupping can also be used to treat other illnesses such as asthma, common cold, chronic cough, indigestion, and some skin conditions.
Gua Sha is similar to cupping only it is used for less severe pain and doesn’t go as deep as cupping – it is used more superficially to combat pain or stiffness. It can help to open of the pores to release the beginning stages of a common cold or virus by applying pressured strokes at the back of the nape. It is common to have markings on the body post cupping or gua sha treatment, however they will range in size, color and duration.