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Dr. Brenda Yanofsky, EdD, LAc

Cupping

Cupping is applicable to many health concerns and is very successful for detoxification, back problems, and sciatica pain. A successful no-needle modality and solution, the history of cupping goes back to ancient times. Throughout history, cups have evolved from bamboo and animal horns to containers made from horn, bamboo, porcelain, brass and glass.

Cupping is a simple and effective therapeutic technique which can be used alone or in combination with acupuncture to enhance treatment. The method of cupping has been used in different times in most parts of the world. The function of cupping is to warm, move Qi and move energy in the meridians. The method utilizes a cup as the instrument. When the cup is inverted on the skin’s surface, the skin will be drawn up by suction forming a firm grip around the rim of the cup. This method moves stagnation, relieving the inflammation around the area of pain.

The cupping method promotes free flow of Qi and blood in the meridians, diminishing swelling and pain.

Indications for cupping include the following:

  • Headache & dizziness
  • Cough and asthma
  • Pain in the tendons and bones
  • Epigastric pain, indigestion, diarrhea
  • Acute sprains
  • Pain in the lower back, shoulder, and leg
  • Common cold
  • Menstruation pain

Various cupping methods are utilized by the acupuncture physician. The treatment varies with one to a dozen cups in one session. A Sliding Cup method lightly massages the back moving one cup along the back to move stagnation. The Multiple Cupping method places multiple cups along muscle groups. The Retention Cupping method applies cups and leaves them in place to treat a variety of organ systems along the side of the spine. The Flash Cupping method applies cups and takes them off repeatedly and rapidly. This method is used for specific deficient conditions.

The cups are removed within fifteen minutes by releasing the vacuum around the rim of the cup. Areas on the skin may show red or purple discoloration indicating that the internal stagnation has effectively been drawn to the surface. The patient should be assured that the correct therapeutic effect has been achieved and that the bruises will disappear within a few days or up to a week.

To learn more and schedule an appointment, please call 941-955-1220 or Email: doctorbrenda@me.com

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