Maggie McGriskin R.Ac

Fire cupping is done using glass cups and a flame. The flame is created by clamping a cotton ball in forceps, soaking it in 97% alcohol and lighting it on fire. The flame creates vacuum suction for the cups to stick to the body. Typically this is done on the back, but can also be done on the chest, legs, arms, or abdomen!

​

The vacuum suction pulls up the skin, muscle, and fascia to create room for new healthy blood flow, and nutrients to come to the area. This releases muscle tension, and patients often feel immediate relief when the cups are removed. 

​

During the treatment some acupressure massage is done on the back to note points of tension, and to activate the meridians. Then flash, slide, and retain cupping is done along the meridians of the back. The back holds powerful Yang channels that are important for maintaining good energy levels, and healthy digestion! Then acupressure massage is performed on the legs at the distal ends of these meridians.

​

The marks left behind by fire cupping help to deduce what issues are going on with the different areas of the body. The darker the marks, the more stagnation present in the area. This is a good indicator that the patient will need much more cupping treatments to flush out the area. When the marks are pale, this signifies more deficient conditions. This indicates the patient should receive acupuncture, and moxibustion instead. Ideally, the marks will be healthy pink to indicate good blood flow!

​

​