Whether cupping is performed by a Professional Cupping Therapist, or Personal Self Care on yourself, the top question on everyone's mind is "Is Suction Cup Therapy Painful?".
Suction cup therapy is generally considered to be safe when performed by a trained and licensed healthcare provider or therapist or if basic Personal Self Care Cupping with direction.
However, as with any medical treatment, there are certain risks and potential side effects that you should be aware of. Some people may experience mild to moderate discomfort during the treatment, such as a feeling of tightness or pressure in the area being treated. Other possible side effects may include temporary circular marks or bruises on the skin (cupping marks), a slight tingling or pricking sensation, and or mild swelling.
If you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinning medications, or have a skin infection in the area being treated, you should not receive cupping therapy. Cupping therapy is also not recommended for pregnant women or people with certain types of cancer. Cupping should not be used in areas that could occlude an artery.
Tightness or Pressure:
Some people may experience a feeling of tightness or pressure when the cups are applied during cupping therapy. This is due to the suction created by the cups, which helps to decompress, lift and separate the layers of tissue in the area being treated.
The sensation of tightness or pressure may be more pronounced in areas of the body where there is a higher concentration of fascia, muscle or other tissue. It is generally not considered to be painful, but some people may find it to be uncomfortable.
Tingling or Pricking
Some people may experience a slight tingling or pricking sensation during or after cupping therapy. This is usually a normal and temporary side effect of the treatment. The tingling sensation is thought to be caused by the increased blood flow and circulation in the area being treated.
The pricking sensation is thought to be part of the nociceptors and pain gate theory. It is generally not considered to be painful or harmful, and it should resolve on its own within a few minutes, hours or days after the treatment.
Cupping Bruises or Marks
Cupping therapy may cause temporary circular marks or bruises to appear on the skin. These marks, also known as cupping marks, are caused by the suction created by the cups during the treatment. They are generally not painful, but they may be tender to the touch.
Cupping marks usually disappear within a few days to a week, although in some cases they may last for a longer period of time. The intensity and duration of the cupping marks may vary depending on the person's individual skin type and the type of cupping therapy being used.
Swelling
Some people may experience mild swelling after cupping therapy. This is usually a temporary side effect of the treatment and should resolve on its own within a few hours or days.
The swelling is thought to be caused by the increased blood flow and circulation in the area being treated. It is generally not considered to be harmful or painful, but if you are concerned about the swelling or if it is causing you discomfort, you should discuss this with a healthcare provider or therapist who is trained in cupping therapy.
If you have a condition that causes swelling or if you are taking medications that can cause swelling, you should inform your healthcare provider or therapist before receiving cupping therapy. They can help you determine whether cupping therapy is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you.
As with most things in life, there is risk and there is reward. Cupping is generally considered safe, but If you have any concerns about the safety of cupping therapy, you should discuss them with a healthcare provider or therapist who is trained in this treatment. They can provide you with more information and help you determine whether cupping therapy is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you.