Can cupping with bloodletting be used for knee pain?
Sep 20, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
In general, whether bloodletting cupping can be used for knee pain depends primarily on the underlying cause of the pain. If the pain is due to an acute injury, bloodletting cupping is usually not recommended. However, if the pain is caused by invasion of wind, cold, and dampness, bloodletting cupping is typically appropriate for treatment. In cases of knee pain resulting from an acute injury, bloodletting cupping should not be performed within 48 hours, as it may exacerbate bleeding or oozing in the knee joint.
Knee pain generally refers to pain in the knee joint. Whether cupping with bloodletting is appropriate for knee pain mainly depends on the underlying cause. If the pain is due to an acute injury, cupping with bloodletting is usually not recommended; however, if it results from invasion of wind, cold, or dampness, cupping with bloodletting is typically suitable as a treatment. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is advised. Specific analysis is as follows:
If knee joint pain is caused by an acute injury, cupping with bloodletting should not be performed within 48 hours. Performing it during this period may increase bleeding and oozing in the knee, worsening swelling and pain. It is recommended to wait until after 48 hours before undergoing cupping or刺络拔罐 (pricking and cupping) therapy to help alleviate symptoms of swelling and pain.
If knee joint pain is caused by osteoarthritis due to invasion of wind, cold, and dampness, or by old injuries, cupping with bloodletting at the knee area is generally acceptable. Cupping can promote blood circulation, relieve muscle tension, reduce inflammatory responses, and thereby help alleviate pain. However, because the knee area has relatively little muscle mass, appropriately sized cups and precise placement are essential during cupping; otherwise, the cups may not hold properly.
In daily life, maintain warmth around the knee joint to avoid exposure to cold, ensure adequate rest, and avoid strenuous physical activity to prevent interference with recovery.
