Proven Benefits of Dry Cupping
Cupping uses gentle suction to lift skin and underlying tissue, reaching layers of fascia that conventional massage struggles to access. Here's what makes it different.
Dry cupping uses gentle suction to lift the skin and underlying tissue, reaching layers of fascia and muscle that conventional massage struggles to access. It's a traditional therapy with a growing evidence base — and a long list of therapeutic benefits when carried out by a qualified practitioner.
The Proven Benefits
Dry cupping therapy offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits, including:
- Increases the production of endogenous hormones in the brain to enhance pain control.
- Boosts blood circulation by improving microcirculation and promoting the repair of capillary endothelial cells.
- Aids in the removal of waste and toxins from the body.
- Facilitates muscle relaxation.
- Eliminates harmful materials from superficial microcirculation and interstitial tissue.
- Can improve cardiovascular health by reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels.
- Significantly decreases total cholesterol levels.
- Increases activity in the parasympathetic nervous system.
- Boosts the production of red blood cells.
- Leads to a notable reduction in blood sugar levels for diabetic patients.
- Helps to loosen adhesions and rehydrate connective tissue.
- Assists in managing high blood pressure.
Contraindications for Cupping Therapy
Cupping treatment is not recommended if you have any of the following conditions:
- Open wounds
- Skin conditions
- Infections
- Physical orifices
- Varicose veins
- Involvement of lymph nodes
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Unhealed skin from previous cupping therapy
- Fractures or other acute injuries
- Apprehension or reluctance toward treatment
Potential Side Effects
While cupping therapy is generally safe, it may cause the following side effects:
- Erythema (redness of the skin)
- Oedema (swelling)
- Ecchymosis (discoloration of the skin due to bleeding underneath, usually from bruising)
- Dermatitis
- Folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles)
- Inflammation
- Skin burns
- Pain
- Skin markings from the cups
Always consult a qualified practitioner before undergoing any therapy to ensure it is safe for your individual condition. If you'd like to discuss whether cupping is right for you, get in touch and one of our therapists will be happy to talk through your needs.