The Pro’s
For those who have jumped into this healing technique there are a number of ailments it’s meant to heal. Cupping therapy has been found to help pain conditions, herpes zoster, couch, and trouble breathing. Cupping therapy has been used to treat various conditions including:
Conditions Treated
• Skin problems (acne, eczema)
• Anxiety
• Excess Heat conditions(fever, stress)
• Colds and Upper respiratory infections
• Arthritis
• Plantar fasciitis (pain in the bottom of the foot)
• Blood Disorders (anemia)
• Loosens or breaks adhesions (connective tissue that is stuck as a result of an injury)
• Detoxification
It is also said that it can increase physical relaxation and promote healing. Consider decades long career Phelps has had, he has sure to have put his body through the paces. This type of therapy could be effective in erasing the exercise side effects-soreness, inflammation, pain, etc.- and leave your ready for the next onslaught.
The Cons
Before you run out to your nearest alternative healing clinic, let’s quickly review some of the risks.
• Mild discomfort: this stems from the stretch the skin goes under when the cupping is being performed.
• Burns: These can occur from whatever materials are being used as the accelerant for the flame. If it is not extinguished prior to applying the cup to the body, the skin may be burned.
• Skin infection: This side effect can occur when the acupuncture or bleeding procedures are used. Proper care, pre and post procedure, must be taken to insure the reduced risk of infection
• Bruising: This is the most frequent side effect. The main purpose of cupping to increase blood flow to a specific area of the body. That means that capillaries will become engorged to the point of rupturing. The results in bruising.
Like with every other training technique, supplement, or treatment it is good to know if there has been research to support its effects. Although there have been a number of studies done on cupping, there is not a substantial amount of evidence to either prove or disprove its benefits. If you do consider trying it, make sure that your practitioner is a licensed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner or Acupuncturist.