Cupping Therapy Care & Safety

  • Cleanliness: Before each use, ensure that the silicone cups are thoroughly cleaned with mild soap & water. Rinse them well & pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals as they may damage the cups. 
  • Skin Preparation: Prior to cupping therapy, make sure the skin is clean & dry. Apply a moderate amount of your preferred oil to the area being treated.
    • Cup Placement: When placing the silicone cups on the skin, be cautious & gentle. Ensure that the cups are secure & do not wobble or fall off during the treatment. Avoid placing cups over bony areas, sensitive areas, or broken or irritated skin.
      • Suction Intensity: Silicone cups come with various suction levels. Start with a lower suction intensity and gradually increase if desired. It is important to listen to your body & adjust the suction to a comfortable level. Excessive suction can cause discomfort or bruising.
      • Duration of Treatment: The duration of cupping therapy sessions can vary depending on individual preferences & needs. Generally, cupping is performed for 5 to 15 minutes per area. However, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or cupping therapist to determine the appropriate duration for your specific condition.
      • Sensations & Discomfort: Cupping therapy may cause mild discomfort or a pulling sensation during treatment. This is normal and usually subsides after the cups are removed. However, if you experience excessive pain, dizziness, or any adverse reactions, discontinue the session & consult a healthcare professional.
      • Hydration & Rest: After cupping therapy, it is important to drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins that may have been released during the treatment. Rest & avoid vigorous activities immediately following the session to allow your body to recover.
      • Storage: When not in use, store silicone cups in a clean & dry area away from direct sunlight & extreme temperatures. Avoid storing them near sharp objects or other potential sources of damage.
      • Personal Hygiene: If you are using silicone cups for self-treatment, it is essential to maintain good personal hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the cups & ensure that the treatment area is clean.
      • Consultation: If you have any underlying health conditions or are unsure about the suitability of cupping therapy for your specific situation, it is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting the treatment.

                    Here are some areas of the body where cupping therapy should be approached with caution or avoided altogether:

                    Arteries: In some areas of the body, the arteries are much closer to the skin & should never be cupped. The areas to avoid are:

                      A.  Common Carotid Artery – located on each side of the neck

                      B.  Axillary Artery – located in the armpit

                      C.  Brachial Artery – located on the inside bend of the elbow

                      D.  Femoral Artery – located in the groin area or the inside fold of each leg at the pelvis

                      E.  Linea Alba – located at the connection of the muscles of the abdomen

                      F.  Temporal Region – avoid using strong suction in the temporal region as the Temporal Artery & facial nerves are in this area & are extremely delicate

                      G.  Popliteal Artery - located on the back side of the knee

                      H.  Kidneys – Cupping should be done minimally when directly over the kidneys

                      •  Open wounds or injuries: Cupping should not be performed on areas of the body with open wounds, cuts, or abrasions. The suction created by the cups can interfere with the natural healing process & may lead to infection or further injury.
                      • Broken or fractured bones: Cupping therapy should not be applied directly over broken or fractured bones. The increased blood flow & pressure caused by the cups may impede the healing process or worsen the injury.
                      • Inflamed or swollen areas: Cupping should be avoided on areas of the body that are currently inflamed or swollen. Applying suction to these areas can aggravate the condition, increase pain, or lead to further inflammation.
                      • Varicose veins: Cupping therapy should not be performed directly over varicose veins. The suction may cause increased pressure on the veins, potentially leading to further dilation or damage to the blood vessels.
                      • Sensory organs: It is generally not recommended to apply cupping therapy directly on or around the eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. These areas are highly sensitive and delicate, & the cups may cause discomfort or injury.
                      • Spine & bony prominences: Special care should be taken when applying cupping therapy to the spine or bony prominences, such as the shoulder blades or hips. The cups should be carefully positioned to avoid putting excessive pressure on the bones or causing discomfort.
                      • Abdominal & lower back regions during pregnancy: Pregnant women should avoid cupping therapy on the abdomen & lower back, especially during the first trimester. Cupping in these areas may potentially stimulate contractions or cause unnecessary stress to the developing fetus.
                      • Skin conditions or diseases: Cupping therapy should be used cautiously or avoided on areas of the body affected by certain skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or severe acne. The suction may worsen the symptoms or cause skin irritation.

                                      Remember, cupping therapy should always be performed safely & responsibly. Following these care and safety guidelines will help ensure a positive and beneficial cupping experience.