Wilmington Acupuncture Studio

Cupping

Cupping is an ancient technique, used in many cultures, in which a special cup is applied to the skin and held in place by suction. The suction draws the superficial skin and muscle tissue up into the cup. This action causes a feeling of pressure for the patient. Often it is explained as feeling like a massage from the inside out.

Cupping brings fresh blood to the area and helps improve circulation in areas of overuse or past traumatic injury. The pressure from the cup draws old stagnate blood and toxins in the muscle to the surface where the capillary network can clean it out of the body. This is what causes the traditional "cupping marks" many people have seen on athletes, such as Michael Phelps at the Olympics.

As new healthy tissue is laid down by the body and the old blood and toxins removed, the same or more pressure from a cup will actually leave no mark because healthy tissue will bend with the pressure of the cups. As the tissue health improves the muscular pain/discomfort usually subsides as well.

Traditional cupping, sometimes referred to as “fire cupping," uses heat to create a vacuum-like suction inside of glass cups. In modern times, cups that use a small pump to create suction have also been introduced.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment.

Qigong

Qigong means "life energy cultivation" and is traditionally seen as a method to cultivate and balance qi. The practice involves rhythmic movement, focused breathing, and concentrated awareness. Qigong is a safe and gentle meditative exercise that promotes healing of the mind and body.