Can you be exposed to wind after cupping?
Nov 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, one should not be exposed to wind after cupping therapy. Since exposure to wind may easily lead to conditions such as wind-cold or rheumatism, which are difficult to treat once developed. If a person catches a cold complicated by wind-cold or rheumatism, it could easily result in a severe cold. This is because the pores of the skin are open and immunity is reduced after cupping. Therefore, it's important to dress warmly promptly after cupping to avoid catching a chill.
Under normal circumstances, one should avoid exposure to wind after cupping therapy, as being exposed to wind may easily lead to conditions such as colds or rheumatism, which are difficult to treat once developed. If exposed to wind after cupping, a person may easily develop severe colds because the skin pores are open and immunity is reduced following the procedure. Therefore, it's important to dress warmly immediately after cupping to prevent catching a chill. Specific details are as follows:
One should wait at least three hours before being exposed to wind after cupping. From the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is not advisable to be exposed to wind immediately after cupping, as the body's blood circulation is heightened and skin pores are dilated at this time. Exposure to wind allows pathogenic factors to easily enter the body, potentially causing symptoms of wind-cold感冒 (common cold). Therefore, avoid exposure to cold wind within three hours after cupping. After about three hours, the pores gradually contract, making it safe to have moderate exposure to air.
Exposure to wind after cupping may easily affect the knee joints. Patients with rheumatic diseases may experience worsened joint pain after being exposed to wind. Additionally, sudden cooling may cause rapid contraction of skin pores, possibly leading to headaches. At this time, bathing should also be avoided immediately; instead, one should focus on staying warm and getting adequate rest.
