During a Treatment
During a cupping treatment, a cup is placed on the skin and then suctioned onto the skin, sucking the skin and muscle upward into the cup. Your skin may turn red as the blood vessels respond to the change in pressure. The cup is set usually between 5 and 10 minutes. After the cups are removed, you’ll notice mild bruising or other marks which will usually go away within 10 days of the session.
Precautions
Generally there aren’t many side effects associated with cupping, however, during your treatment or immediately after, you may feel lightheaded or dizzy or may also experience sweating or nausea.
Cupping therapy isn’t recommended for everyone. Extra caution should be taken for the following groups:
- Children. Children under 4 years old shouldn’t receive cupping therapy. Older children should only be treated for very short periods.
- Seniors. Our skin becomes more fragile as we age. Any medication you may be taking might have an effect as well, e.g. blood thinners.
- Pregnant people. Avoid cupping the abdomen and lower back.
- Those who are currently menstruating or have an open wound/ ulcer