Cupping
What is Cupping?
Cupping is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy that involves placing cups on the skin to create a suction effect. This suction is a powerful method used to enhance the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) and blood throughout the body, while also aiding in the removal of toxins.
In modern practice, cupping is widely recognized for its effectiveness in relieving pain and reducing inflammation, particularly in cases of musculoskeletal injuries such as strains, sprains, and muscle tension.
Benefits of Cupping:
- Pain Relief: Particularly effective for relieving chronic pain, especially in the back, neck, and shoulders.
- Muscle Recovery: Widely used by athletes and active individuals to reduce muscle soreness, tension, and recovery time.
- Improved Circulation: Helps enhance blood flow, which can speed up healing and reduce inflammation.
- Detoxification: Promotes the movement of lymphatic fluid and elimination of toxins.
- Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Promotes relaxation and can help alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and fatigue.
- Respiratory Conditions: Helps clear phlegm from the lungs, improve breathing, and relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and colds.
What can I expect during my visit?
During a cupping session, the acupuncturist places cups on specific acupuncture points or areas of the body experiencing pain or stagnation. The cups create suction, drawing the skin upward, and are left in place for 5 to 10 minutes. This process helps to relieve muscle pain, alleviate stagnation, and promote better circulation.
The circular marks left on the skin afterward are a sign of the therapy’s effectiveness, showing where stagnation was released. This treatment can be done once a week for ongoing benefits.
Can I pay using Health Insurance?
Yes, most extended health insurance plans cover cupping under acupuncture extended health benefits.
Do you offer Direct Billing?
Yes, we offer direct billing to ICBC and extended health insurance companies.
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