As a therapy with a history of several thousand years, cupping is now recommended for the treatment of minor pain, gastrointestinal disorders, lung diseases (especially chronic coughing and asthma) and paralysis.
Peng Zhiwei, a traditional Chinese masseur at Inlong International Spa, said the treatment has some relation to massage techniques but it is mainly about drawing blood to specific places to improve circulation.
Peng, who has been a masseur since 1981, demonstrated the cupping therapy on the back of one of his patients, Lin Zhuoqi, who was suffering from a frozen shoulder.
"Cupping is usually applied to acupuncture points and regions of the body that are affected by pain," said the Hunan native. "Traditional cupping methods use fire to create suction in a cup. The cup is then applied to specific points on the body."
After soaking a cotton ball with alcohol, Peng then ignited the swab and placed it in the small cup. Very quickly, he then applied the cup to Lin's body, an action that sucked up the skin.
"Cupping brings fresh blood to an area and improves circulation. It also helps open up the chest and benefits the lungs. It can even benefit menstrual and digestive problems. Most commonly, it is used for aches and pains of various types, as well as respiratory problems, coughs and wheezing."
