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What is Cupping Therapy?

| Luis Echeverry |
Cupping Therapy in Tampa FL Driven SWS

Let’s hop in our way back machine to the 2016 Olympics: Michael Phelps was crushing it while he had mysterious, large red marks all over his back?  Remember thinking – what are those?  Nearly everyone did. Well, those red marks are a result of cupping – an ancient Chinese form of alternative medicine. 

Cupping is used primarily to facilitate healing with blood flow, but it also helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promotes health, relaxation, and well being. In cupping therapy, a therapist puts special cups on your skin to create suction.

Michael Phelps does it, so it’s got to be safe, right? Let’s take a closer look.  

The Science Behind Cupping

The science of cupping is very similar to acupuncture in that both therapies are believed to balance yin and yang, within the body and facilitate the flow of “qi” – the vital energy or life force believed to regulate your spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health. 

Restoring the balance between these two extremes is thought to help with the body’s resistance to pathogens as well as its ability to increase blood flow and reduce pain. 

Driven Fit+ SWS offers cupping therapy in Tampa with Dr. Sarah Sponaugle. Come by the studio to experience the healing of cupping!

Is Cupping Safe? 

Yes, this alternative therapy is safe. But, there are certain exceptions. These may include:

  • Your cupping therapist isn’t certified – Most therapists who practice cupping are not certified in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Before any cupping treatment, research your therapist to protect your safety. Don’t worry: the team at Driven+SWS is fully certified.
  • Children who are under the age of four – Cupping should never be performed on a child who is under the age of four years old. Older children should only be treated for very short periods.
  • Adults over the age of 65 – As we age, our skin becomes more fragile, and therefore cupping at this age isn’t recommended. 
  • Women who are pregnant – Cupping should be avoided at the abdomen and lower back for all pregnant women.
  • Those who use blood-thinning medication, have a sunburn, a wound, a skin ulcer, experienced recent trauma, or have an internal organ disorder.
  • If the therapist doesn’t practice sanitary methods – He or she should use clean equipment and have regular vaccines to ensure protection against disease. 

As with any change to your diet, exercise, or therapy regimen we recommend you speak with your doctor before receiving treatment.

Are There Side Effects to Cupping?

While overall very safe, there are a few side effects associated with cupping. These typically only occur during or immediately following treatment. Possible side effects of cupping therapy may include: 

  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy during or after treatment
  • Sweating or slight nausea during treatment
  • Pain or irritation at the cupping sites  
  • Risk of infection *this is extremely rare. At Driven+SWS, our therapists always follow the appropriate methods for cleaning your skin before or after your cupping session
  • Scarring of the skin
  • Hematoma (bruising)

Cupping Therapy in Tampa

This ancient form of therapy is known for its healing capabilities. Cupping is used to increase blood flow, alleviate pains and inflammation. Cupping therapy can help you relax and improve your overall health & wellbeing. 

If you are interested in cupping treatments at our South Tampa wellness center, schedule a consultation today! Our trained and experienced Tampa, FL cupping therapists, please call or text Driven + SWS today at (813) 440-3016.

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