What causes pain after cupping therapy?

Nov 11, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. He Haochen

Introduction

Cupping therapy uses negative pressure to promote local blood circulation, open pores, regulate meridian blockages, and enhance metabolism. Feeling pain after cupping may be caused by cold exposure, lactic acid buildup, qi stagnation and blood stasis, burns, or capillary rupture. Relief measures should be chosen according to the specific cause. In any case, if the above issues occur, it is recommended to consult a professional doctor promptly.

In general, cupping therapy uses negative pressure to promote local blood circulation, open pores, regulate meridian blockages, and enhance metabolism. Feeling pain after cupping may be caused by cold exposure, lactic acid buildup, qi stagnation and blood stasis, burns, or capillary rupture. Relief measures should be taken according to the specific situation. Details are as follows:

1. Cold Exposure

If muscle pain is accompanied by joint pain after cupping, it is usually due to catching a chill. After cupping, pores remain open, making the body susceptible to cold if proper precautions are not taken, which can lead to pain. It is important to maintain warmth during and after cupping sessions.

2. Lactic Acid Buildup

Cupping creates negative pressure that stimulates the skin and causes bruising, helping regulate the body's meridians. After cupping, lactic acid may be released into the muscles, leading to varying degrees of soreness, especially in muscular areas. This condition does not require special treatment and typically resolves on its own within a week.

3. Qi Stagnation and Blood Stasis

Cupping is a common external treatment in traditional Chinese medicine, often used to treat conditions such as exogenous wind-cold or qi stagnation with blood stasis. In individuals with qi deficiency or blood stasis constitution, the body undergoes regulatory changes after cupping, and the process of vital energy expelling pathogens may result in muscle pain.

4. Burns

Cupping often involves igniting fire inside the cup to remove oxygen and create negative pressure. If the flame temperature is too high or the burning time too long, the cup itself may become excessively hot and cause burns upon contact with the skin, resulting in pain. Patients may apply burn ointments or erythromycin ointment as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

5. Capillary Rupture

Due to excessive negative pressure or prolonged suction during cupping, capillaries may become congested or rupture, causing localized pain and bruising. For this issue, patients may use cold compresses to help reduce discomfort.

In summary, if any of the above issues occur, it is recommended to consult a qualified healthcare provider promptly for appropriate evaluation and treatment.

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What should be noted after cupping therapy?

After cupping therapy, it is important to get adequate rest, avoid exposure to cold, and pay attention to dietary adjustments. In addition, maintaining proper internal hydration after cupping can help promote blood circulation and lymphatic detoxification. Cupping should be performed under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. If any discomfort or abnormal reactions occur, seek medical attention promptly and inform the physician about the cupping treatment.

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How long after cupping in summer can you use a fan?

Under normal circumstances, it is safe to use a fan about four hours after cupping therapy in summer, and this will not cause discomfort to the patient. Cupping therapy is a common traditional Chinese medical treatment that uses cups as tools to create localized bruising. It helps unblock meridians, promote qi and blood circulation, reduce swelling and relieve pain, as well as dispel wind and cold, thereby achieving the purpose of preventing and treating diseases.