What the cup?!

 Cupping is not a new technique, in fact it has been been used for more than a thousand years in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).  From the traditional standpoint, cupping is used to help remove stagnation and stimulate the flow of Chi (Qi).  This Chi, is the vital energy circulating and flowing throughout the body and in the world around us.  When there is a disruption of chi, stagnation or blockages and imbalances can occur.  Chi is closely associated with blood in TCM and it is believed that stagnation of chi and blood are causes of pain and disease.

There are a number of ways cupping is performed.  Traditionally, a cup made of bamboo, bone or glass is used, heating the inside of the cup with fire and then placing the cup on the skin.  As the air inside the cup cools, it creates a vacuum and negative pressure (suction) on the skin.  Today, some practitioners still us glass cups and flame, but many use either silicone cups that are similar to a plunger or glass or plastic cups with a one way valve attached to a pump.  Additionally, the cups can be kept in one place or once suction is applied, the cup can be moved around to cover a larger area.

From a Western perspective, cupping is is similar to massage in that it helps to loosen fascia (connective tissue)and stimulate blood flow to the surface.  Cupping can stimulate tissue relaxation and increased cell to cell communication.  Helene Langevin, a U.S. physiologist, researcher and acupuncturist has documented cell level changes resulting from cupping with an ultrasound camera.  She has shown cupping to relax tissue, reduce markers of inflammation, reduction of inflammatory cytokines and cytokines that promote healing and relaxation are increased.

While this by no means is a conclusive study, the side effects from cupping are really very minimal...cup marks and sometimes bruising (if used too aggressively). All said, the potential benefits seem to outweigh the side effects.

Personally, I have used cupping on myself and others and have found some really great results, especially with areas like the IT bands and areas that are sensitive to pressure.  Cupping is just one more tool in the massage and bodywork toolbox.