Cupping therapy is a complementary treatment that may help relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, reduce discomfort, and support the body’s natural recovery process. At Twin Acupuncture, with convenient locations in Staten Island, New York, and Toms River, New Jersey, acupuncture specialist Kerri Kuhlsen, L.Ac., c.SMA, incorporates cupping therapy into personalized acupuncture treatments when appropriate. Cupping is not offered as a standalone service; instead, each patient’s first visit includes a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment plan to determine whether cupping may benefit their specific health concerns. To schedule your initial consultation, call or text the office or complete the online appointment form today.
Cupping therapy has been practiced in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years and has more recently gained popularity around the globe thanks to its numerous benefits, particularly for athletes. It uses gentle suction to lift the skin and increase blood flow to targeted areas needing circulation and healing.
This process can help release restrictive fascia (connective tissue) and benefit muscular recovery. The cups may remain in one place, or Kerri may move them across treatment areas. Cupping therapy can relax contracted muscles, improve respiratory disorders, and eliminate toxins
An initial consultation is always the first step in receiving cupping therapy at Twin Acupuncture.
After an initial consultation to determine whether you’re a candidate for cupping therapy, you schedule your first session promptly. Kerri discusses your health history, current concerns, and what you’d like to get out of treatment.
When you arrive, you can prepare by being well-hydrated and neither hungry nor full. Don’t worry about shaving the treatment area. Avoid any level of sunburn before your appointment, and wear comfortable clothes.
When you attend your cupping therapy session, Kerri uses small plastic cups to suction targeted areas of skin. She may glide them along the skin.
These cups increase the circulation to these areas, often leaving a distinctive mark. You may have seen professional athletes with mysterious, round red marks on their muscles. This natural side effect of cupping lasts only a few days and dissipates on its own.
After your cupping appointment, let your body adjust and process the benefits you’ve earned. For 4-6 hours after your treatment, avoid:
Instead, drink lots of water to help flush cellular waste that cupping has eliminated from your tissues, keep comfortably warm, and allow yourself to rest. Hydration and relaxation are the order of the day.
To set up your initial consultation, fill out the online form or reach out to Twin Acupuncture by calling or texting today.
