CUPPING

What is Cupping Therapy?

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Cupping uses suction to pull toxins and stagnant energy from deep within the tissues to the surface of the skin, where the superficial blood supply can carry them away through the lymphatic system, liver, and other detoxification pathways. At the same time, fresh blood is drawn into the area, enhancing circulation and promoting healing. The therapy is often combined with acupuncture, guasha, red light therapy, and other modalities for a more comprehensive treatment plan.

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The Science Behind Cupping

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Your cells use oxygen and produce carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct. When there's pain, it typically indicates a blockage in the flow of energy (also known as "Qi") in that area. This blockage causes CO2 to get stuck, leading to a buildup of toxins or acids in the muscles or joints. Cupping helps release these toxins, allowing for improved circulation and a faster healing process.

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Cupping as a Diagnostic Tool

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Cupping isn't just therapeutic—it's also diagnostic. Here's what we learn from a cupping session:

1. Where the Problem Is: Different areas of the body react differently to cupping. Some tissue will change color (indicating areas of congestion), while others won’t.

2. What Kind of Problem It Is: If the cupping site shows significant color changes, it often points to toxin buildup or muscle spasm. If there’s little to no color change, the issue might be related to bones or nerves. Sometimes, a bone or nerve problem can have a layer of toxin buildup, which we need to address to improve the effectiveness of other treatments like acupuncture.

3. How Severe the Problem Is: The color that appears in the cupping marks can tell us how serious the issue is. Lighter colors (like pink) indicate minor toxin buildup, while darker colors (like purple or black) suggest more significant stagnation. It can take up to 10 days for darker marks to fully dissipate.

If we do see discoloration during your cupping session, indicating stagnation in the area, generally 3-5 sessions are needed to fully clear it from the body.

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Cupping Therapy at Basic Balance

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The cupping techniques Allison uses are results-driven and may require deeper pressure to be effective. While cupping can be highly beneficial, it may not always be the most comfortable therapy for everyone, as more pressure is sometimes needed to target deeper tissues for optimal results. Each cupping session is customized to your specific needs. While cupping can address a variety of issues, including muscle pain, tension, and toxin buildup, it may not be suitable for all patients.

 

After-Care for Cupping

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After your cupping session, you may experience redness or marks where the cups were placed. These marks typically fade within a few days to a week, depending on the severity of the issue being addressed.

To support your body’s natural healing process, be sure to:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out the toxins.

• Rest: Avoid strenuous physical activity for a few hours after your session.

• Gentle movement: Light stretching or movement can help enhance circulation and support recovery.

• Avoid tight clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes to avoid pressure on treated areas.

• Avoid direct air flow such as fans or air conditioning on the treated areas for 48 hours.

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Is Cupping Right for You?

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Cupping is a highly effective therapy, but it may not be suitable for everyone. If you have specific health concerns, such as blood disorders, skin conditions, or are pregnant, please consult with Allison before booking a cupping session. If you're curious about how cupping could benefit you or have any questions, feel free to reach out!