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Cupping Therapy

357x25520130708111736726Cupping therapy is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) technique which involves the placement of suction cups on the body. It is effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal complaints and other conditions too. It can easily be added to your acupuncture or massage session. 

How does Cupping Therapy work?

Cupping therapy involves the placement of suction cups on the body. The location in which they are places varies according to the problem being treated. Often cups are placed down the back or on the shoulders to reduce pain and tension in these areas.

The suction cups draw up blood stasis in these areas to just below the surface of the skin (no bleeding occurs), relieving pain and tension. When cups are removed there is usually an immediate feeling of muscle relaxation.

Cupping can result in temporary painless bruise-like marking on the skin, as stagnant blood is brought towards the surface. (This look was made famous by Gwyneth Paltrow in a backless dress on the red carpet several years ago). The markings usually subside within a week.

There are several different cupping techniques that we use including:

  • Stationary - cups are left in place for several minutes.
  • Sliding - suction cups slide across the body area with the help of massage oil. This technique is great on backs and legs. It is a great treatment for tight iliotibial bands (ITBs).
  • Flash - cups are applied lightly and quickly taken off. The process is repeated several times to have an invigorating effect. It is often used on weak limbs with poor blood circultation.

Who can benefit?

Cupping is great for anyone with:

  • Pain, tension and knots carried in the large muscles of the body eg. backs, shoulders and legs.
  • Pain caused by physical trauma in the past which just won't go away.
  • Sporting injuries eg. corked calves or thighs.
  • The common cold & lower respiratory conditions. Sliding cupping over the upper back is an excellent treatment for the early days of a common cold or to relieve chest congestion.

What happens during a consultation?

Your pracitioner will use some traditional diagnostic methods to determine a TCM diagnosis for your condition and outline an appropriate treatment plan. This may include other therapies, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes and referrals to other practitioners as required.

Your practitioner will make you comfortable on a treatment table.  Your treatment will probably be in conjunction with acupuncture or massage treatent. Allow up to 90 minutes for your first acupuncture appointment or up to an hour for a massage appointment.

Subsequent consultations involve a short consultation regarding the results of the last treatment and changes that have occurred. Your pracititioner will make any necessary changes to the treatment plan and give you a 20-30 minute acupuncture session or massage treatment (30 mins or 1 hour) including your cupping.

How much will it cost?

Cupping Initial consultation (approximately 1 hour) $100
Cupping subsequent consultation (between 45-60 minutes) $75

Practitioner

Zam Martin

Some consultations are eligible for Health Fund rebates. 
Concession and pensioner prices are available - please contact us for more information.

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