Cupping is a type of alternative therapy that originated in China. It involves placing cups on the skin to create suction. The suction facilitates healing with blood flow, as well as the flow of “qi” in the body. Qi is a Chinese word meaning life force.

Cupping increases blood circulation to the area where the cups are placed. This can relieve muscle tension, which can improve overall blood flow and promote cell repair. It can also help form new connective tissues and create new blood vessels in the tissue. People use cupping to complement their care for a host of ailments and conditions.

Cupping has been used to treat a wide variety of conditions. It may be particularly effective at easing conditions that create muscle aches and pains. Since the cups can also be applied to major acupressure points, the practice is possibly effective at treating digestive issues, skin issues, and other conditions commonly treated with acupressure.

In 2012, the journal PLoS One published reviews of cupping therapy researchers found that cupping therapy may help in treatment of the following conditions, among others:

herpes zoster
facial paralysis
cough and dyspnea
acne
lumbar disc herniation
cervical spondylosis

At MetroMD our cupping therapist, Alan, can help you achieve you physical and mental goals through cupping. You do not have to live your life suffering day in and day out from back pain, muscle soreness, headaches, joint injuries, etc… Let Alan be of service to you, as you serve yourself in getting the help you need and deserve! You are worth it!