10/09/2025
Cupping therapy works by creating suction on the skin using cups made of glass, silicone, or plastic. This suction pulls the skin, fascia, and underlying tissue upward, increasing blood flow, relieving tension, and helping remove stagnation from the body. Here's a breakdown of how and why it works, from both biomedical and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspectives:
Modern / Biomedical Explanation
1. Increases Local Blood Flow
The suction draws blood to the surface, expanding blood vessels and increasing circulation.
This enhanced circulation:
Brings oxygen and nutrients to tissues.
Helps flush out waste products, such as lactic acid.
Speeds up healing and tissue repair.
2. Releases Muscle Tension and Fascia
The negative pressure lifts the soft tissues, separating layers of skin, muscle, and fascia.
This can:
Reduce tight knots.
Increase mobility.
Improve range of motion.
3. Triggers Inflammatory Response (Good Kind)
The suction creates microtrauma (seen as circular red or purple marks).
This triggers the body’s immune and repair response, stimulating:
Immune cells.
Anti-inflammatory chemicals.
Regeneration of soft tissue.
🧠 Think of it as a "controlled injury" that stimulates natural healing.
🌿 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Explanation
In TCM, cupping works by:
1. Removing Stagnation:
Pain and illness are often caused by qi and blood stagnation.
Cupping helps unblock these channels (meridians) to restore healthy flow.
2. Expelling External Pathogens:
Wind, cold, heat, or dampness can invade the body (especially the lungs).
Cupping helps “vent” these pathogens through the skin, especially when used early in colds or coughs.
3. Supporting Organs Like the Lungs and Spleen
Cupping over the upper back (BL13 area) supports lung function and clears phlegm.
Over the middle/lower back, it can support digestion and spleen qi.
