A.D. SHANNON, LMT, MDT
MULTIDIMENSIONAL INTEGRATIVE THERAPIST
Cupping Therapy Contraindications

CONTRAINDICATIONS (Why you should NOT get cupping.)

Cupping is contraindicated in cases of severe diseases, such as cardiac failure, renal failure, ascites due to hepato-cirrhosis and severe edema, as well as hemorrhagic diseases such as allergic purpura (a form of vasculitis, i.e., inflammation of the blood vessels), hemophilia and leukemia, and clients with dermatosis, destruction of the skin, or allergic dermatitis.

Cupping should not be applied to an area where a hernia exists or has occurred in the past.

*Pregnancy:  Personally, I only do cupping on mommies after they have had their babies. However, the generally accepted protocol for cupping on pregnant women is: "For pregnant women, work on the lower abdomen, inner side of the leg and sacral (tail bone) region should be avoided. Also, if you have never received a cupping treatment, you should wait until the 2nd trimester to receive your first treatment."

If you are unsure whether or not a condition you have maybe contraindicated, please first consult your doctor.

Other contraindications:

  • blood thinners
  • hemophiliac
  • broken bones
  • dislocations
  • slipped disks
  • those undergoing cancer treatments such as radiation (check with Doctor)
  • sunburn
  • ruptured, ulcerated, inflamed skin
  • Fever- you will be sent home
  • DEHYDRATION- Will not use cupping but massage is fine.
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Acute stages of Psoriasis, Eczema, or Rosacea


WARNINGS:
Cupping Therapy affects the body the same as a deep tissue massage.  You may experience Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness that will be akin to a long hard workout.  However, the feel of cupping is not as intense as deep tissue massage. Thanks to the nature of negative pressure therapy, the work is deep without being painful although occasionally it can be uncomfortable.  Remember to check in with your therapist to make sure the therapy is within your personal comfort level.

​If you are diabetic or have high or low blood pressure, shorter, lighter techniques are recommended and must be used for your overall wellness. Those with low blood pressure should warn the therapist ahead of time as you'll need extra time to rest before rising after treatment and accommodations will need to be made.

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