Cupping Therapy has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although not as well known, this treatment follows the same point locations and meridian theory as those used in acupuncture. And instead of needles, cups and suction are used to move and balance the "qi" (the body's energy).

Cupping is particularly useful for encouraging detox and treating chronic pain syndromes. The suction action of the cups increase circulation, loosen muscles and knots, and stimulate nerve endings and skin glands.

During a treatment, cups of different sizes are placed at specific point locations, usually on the back. I use a suction device to have total control over the amount of suction and adjust the treatment to the patient's comfort.

Depending the condition being treated, the cups are left on for a period of time, are repeatedly applied, or used to do a cupping massage. After a treatment there are usually bruise-like but painless circles that remain for a couple of days. (in China and Japan it is common to see these circle markings on elderly women in the bath houses as they use it to treat various health conditions). And like acupuncture, cupping treatments are done weekly and the patient's condition is reassessed every few sessions.