Now Offering Cupping at Our Bellevue Location!
We are excited to announce that Encircle Acupuncture is now offering cupping at our Bellevue location with Licensed Acupuncturist Trey Brackman.
Cupping therapy has been gaining popularity in recent years, but its roots run deep in history, and it has been a modality of Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Read on to explore what cupping is, how it works, its benefits, and what you can expect from a session.
What Is Cupping?
Cupping involves placing special cups on the skin to create negative pressure or suction. This action is thought to promote blood flow, increase circulation of fluids, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall healing.
Cups can be made from various materials, including glass, silicone, and bamboo, and practitioners may use heat or a mechanical pump to create the vacuum.
The Benefits of Cupping
Cupping is a popular treatment among athletes, wellness enthusiasts, and those seeking relief from various ailments. Here are some of the most commonly cited benefits:
1. Pain Relief
Cupping has long been used to alleviate muscle pain, joint pain, and even headaches. It’s especially effective for helping to break up muscle knots and ease tight muscles in the back, neck and shoulders. Athletes often swear by it to recover from injuries and improve performance.
2. Enhanced Circulation
The suction created by the cups expands and breaks open tiny blood vessels under the skin. Your body responds by sending healthier blood flow to the area, which can help nourish tissues and speed up recovery.
3. Reduced Inflammation
Cupping may help decrease inflammation, which is at the root of many chronic conditions. By improving circulation and facilitating lymphatic drainage, cupping can contribute to overall health.
4. Relaxation
Many people find cupping to be a deeply relaxing experience. The therapy can help relieve stress and tension, promoting a sense of well-being.
Potential Risks or Complications of Cupping
Cupping is a relatively low-risk therapy. The cups typically leave red marks or bruises on the skin, which may last for several days. You may also experience temporary side effects, including fatigue, headaches, muscle tension or soreness, or nausea.
Although cupping carries a low risk of complications, it’s not for everyone. You should avoid cupping if you have anemia, bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, clotting disorders or a history of stroke, seizures, a pacemaker, or lymphedema. Cupping should not be done on areas with skin lesions, open wounds, a rash or sunburn, or skin infections.
What to Expect During a Cupping Session
If you’re considering trying cupping, here’s what you can expect during a session:
1. Consultation
Before starting, your practitioner will discuss your medical history and any specific concerns you have. This helps them tailor the treatment to your needs.
2. Preparation
You’ll be in a private room and will typically lie down on a massage table, depending on the area to be cupped. Your practitioner may apply oil to help the cups glide smoothly. Cups are sanitized before the treatment.
3. Application of Cups
The cups are placed on the skin and the suction is created. You may feel a pulling sensation, which can be intense but is generally not painful.
4. Duration
The cups are usually left in place for 5 to 15 minutes. The practitioner will monitor your comfort level throughout.
5. Aftercare
After the cups are removed, you might notice red or purple marks where the cups were placed. These usually fade within a few days. It’s essential to stay hydrated and rest afterward for optimal recovery. You should also avoid exposing the cupped areas to drafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a cupping session cost?
The price for a cupping session at Encircle is the same as an acupuncture treatment: sliding scale of $25-$50 per treatment for return patients; or a $50 flat fee for new patients.
I have pre-paid treatment tokens. Can I use them for cupping?
Yes! You can use your pre-paid credits for either acupuncture or cupping.
Do cupping treatments take place in the community treatment room?
No. Some disrobing may be necessary for cupping, so these treatments are done on a massage table in a private room.
Can I do acupuncture and cupping on the same day?
Yes! We recommend doing acupuncture first, then cupping.
Is cupping available at both Encircle locations?
No, currently cupping is only available in Bellevue.
How long does a cupping session last?
A session will last about 20 minutes total. The cups are usually left in place for 5-15 minutes.
Cupping sounds awesome! How do I schedule an appointment?
Give us a call in Bellevue at 615-645-9866 or East Nashville at 615-457-1979 to schedule your cupping appointment. Online scheduling is not available for cupping at this time.
We’re here to help.
At Encircle Acupuncture, we’re here to help! Call us in East Nashville at 615-457-1979 or in Bellevue at 615-645-9866 to schedule your next cupping session with us.
