Acupuncture cupping is an acupuncture technique used to stimulate the acupuncture points. It involves a metal, wood or glass jar, which is used as a suction cup on the skin. Basically, the suction causes blood to rush to the site, therefore stimulating the area. This technique is often used to relieve pain and is said to flush out toxins in the lymphatic system. The following steps describe acupuncture cupping, but remember that you must have your license to use this technique.
Purchase an acupuncture cupping kit. This includes glass jars (more commonly used) and, depending on which method you use, a burning taper, a vacuum pump or needles. Also purchase alcohol and cotton balls for disinfecting the skin before and after treatment.
2
Familiarize yourself with fire cupping, air cupping and wet cupping. For fire cupping, a burning taper provides a flame, which is inserted into the glass for a short time to warm it. Since the oxygen has escaped, a vacuum is created within the glass. At this point the glass can be placed onto the skin. For air cupping, a vacuum pump or flexible suction cup is attached to the glass jar to draw out the air. Once the air is removed, the jar can be placed on the skin. For wet cupping, the skin is pricked by a needle and the jar draws out a small amount of blood. Wet cupping helps to draw out toxins.
3
Apply glass jars to acupuncture points and/or areas of pain on the body.
4
Leave the glass jars on the skin for no longer than 10 to 15 minutes.
5
Know the limitations and dangers of acupuncture cupping. Cupping can cause swelling or bruising, so this may deter some individuals. A pregnant woman cannot have cupping on her stomach or lower back. In addition, it should not be used on rashes or individuals who bleed easily or who have a fever.
Tips & Warnings
Enroll in a school that specializes in acupuncture to obtain your license. You can continue working your current full-time job and begin part-time courses to obtain your acupuncture license.
Do not practice any form of acupuncture without a license.
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