what is cupping

Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine that uses cups placed on the skin to create suction. The cups may be made of glass, bamboo, earthenware, or silicone. Cupping therapy is used for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage. There are different methods of cupping, including dry and wet cupping. During both types of cupping, a flammable substance such as alcohol, herbs, or paper is put in a cup and set on fire. As the fire goes out, the cup is put upside down on the skin, and as the air inside the cup cools, it creates a vacuum, causing the skin to rise. Cupping therapy is used to relieve conditions that cause pain, such as arthritis, back pain, neck pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It may also ease symptoms of asthma, other breathing issues, and gastrointestinal disorders. Cupping therapy is believed to encourage blood flow, and this increased circulation may promote healing and reduce pain. Cupping therapy is generally safe, but it may cause side effects such as skin irritation, burns, and bruises.