Benefits and Risks of Cupping Therapy
Disease description:
Recently, I have been feeling unwell, and a friend recommended that I try cupping therapy. However, I have never done it before. I know it has some benefits, but I'm also worried about potential drawbacks. I would like to know what the advantages and disadvantages of cupping therapy are?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Cupping therapy is a traditional Chinese medical treatment that offers benefits such as unblocking meridians, promoting blood circulation, improving the flow of qi and blood, and relieving muscle fatigue. However, it may also carry risks such as skin injuries, infections, increased physical discomfort, and other adverse effects.
Cupping creates a negative pressure on the skin, stimulating acupoints and promoting the smooth flow of qi and blood, thus alleviating symptoms such as pain and numbness caused by qi and blood stagnation. The thermal effect generated can accelerate local blood circulation, deliver more nutrients to tissues and organs, and enhance metabolism. For individuals suffering from long-term fatigue or muscle tension, cupping can effectively relax muscles, reduce pain, and restore muscular vitality.
However, improper operation during cupping, excessive negative pressure within the cups, or leaving the cups on the skin for too long may lead to blisters, bruising, or even skin damage, increasing the risk of infection. If the skin already has wounds or ulcers, cupping may worsen the condition and cause the spread of inflammation. Furthermore, individuals with weak constitutions, anemia, heart failure, or similar conditions may experience excessive physical depletion from cupping, leading to increased discomfort and symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, and nausea.
Therefore, it is important to fully understand one's health condition before undergoing cupping, choose a reputable facility, and have the procedure performed by trained professionals to minimize risks.
