Cupping treatment has been practised in both China and the west for thousands of years. In fact, it is still widely-employed by many Mediterranean people in their homes, especially in Turkey and Greece.
This treatment involves small glass cups with a suction being applied to the body. Historically, may other materials have been used to make these cups, including bamboo and rubber, but glass cups (and sometimes plastic) are by far the most commonly-used now.
Whilst it may be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, it is most frequently used in modern clinical settings for its effect upon muscle and other subcutaneous tissues. Mark uses this therapy in the treatment of lower back pain and sciatica with very good results. Tension and impaired circulation respond effectively to cupping in conjunction with acupuncture.
It is also frequently used on the abdomen and can have a powerful beneficial effect upon the digestion system. A cupping treatment stimulates the digestive organs, leading to improved peristalsis and secretion of digestive fluids.
There is a great body of research that demonstrates the systemic beneficial effects this treatment can have on the regulation of the autonomic nervous system and blood pressure. Cupping can also help to strengthen the muscles of the respiratory organs.
