Cupping therapy is a natural, alternative approach to treating a variety of conditions like inflammation and muscle pain or tension. This ancient Chinese medicine promotes healing by improving circulation and encouraging relaxation. If you’re interested in trying this form of therapy, turn to Marie A. Gonzales, L. Ac. in Nyack, NY. Marie is an acupuncturist with more than 20 years of experience, and she can help you find relief in a safe and natural way.

A Guide to Cupping Therapy

How Does This Therapy Work?

During cupping therapy, your acupuncturist applies specially designed cups made of glass, bamboo, or silicone to your skin. Prior to treatment, the cups are warmed; as they cool on your skin, a vacuum forms inside them. This vacuum sucks the skin up into the cup, and the subsequent pressure forces the blood vessels just beneath the skin to expand. Your acupuncturist may leave the cups in place for up to three minutes.

A more modern approach to cupping involves using rubber pumps instead of heated cups, but this method also relies on suction. If your acupuncturist uses silicone cups, she might move them around over your skin for a massage-like effect.

Does It Hurt?

Cupping leaves round, discolored marks on the skin, but these marks are not bruises. Bruises are caused by a sudden, powerful impact, which does not occur during this therapy. The suction that occurs during treatment creates a unique sensation that may cause tightness and some minor initial discomfort. Although this feeling may take some getting used to, cupping therapy is not painful. In fact, it can relieve pain and inflammation without having to rely on powerful pharmaceuticals.

If you are interested in alternative forms of pain relief, turn to Marie A. Gonzales, L. Ac. in Nyack, NY. Visit her website to learn more about her experience in acupuncture and cupping therapy, and call (845) 398-1312 to make an appointment today.