By Hayley Stobbs, R.Ac.

What is Cupping and how does it work?

Cupping is an ancient Chinese medicine therapy that uses suction by means of heat and formed glass to pull muscle tissue upwards. A variety of sized cups may be applied on the back and/or moved along the affected meridian (channel pathway) to improve blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, detoxification, to expel colds, and to release fascia.

What health conditions can Cupping help?

When a cup is left in place on skin or moved, blood stasis is formed and localized healing takes place. Cupping is most commonly used for muscle pain and tension, respiratory disorders, joint aching, dysmenorrhea, constipation, detoxification, and water retention. The technique relaxes the nervous system and improves healing and recovery time too.

Shoulder and neck tension is one of the most common reasons I use cupping in my practice. The point used is GB21 (see picture above).  GB21 is located at the crest of the trapezius muscle, at the point of maximum tenderness, between heaven (the head), and earth (the body). If you haven’t had cupping over this point, do it, it does not disappoint!!

How often are Acupuncture & Cupping treatments recommended?

I  recommend cupping followed by acupuncture every 2 - 8 weeks, taking into consideration an individuals constitution and symptoms.

To book an acupuncture and cupping appointment with Hayley Stobbs R.Ac. please contact the clinic at 778-265-8340 or info@juniperfamilyhealth.com or click here to book online.

To learn more about Hayley Stobbs R.Ac. and her acupuncture practice, follow her on Instagram here - @hayley_stobbs