Cupping Therapy Encyclopedia

Tamer Shaban
Copyright © 2014 Tamer Shaban All rights reserved.

ISBN-13: 978-1494780517 ISBN-10: 1494780518

DEDICATION

To My Father and Mother To my wife and children To my professors

With love

DISCLAIMER

Although the author and publisher have made every effort to ensure that
the information in this book was correct at press time, the author and
publisher do not assume and hereby disclaim any liability to any party
for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions,
whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or
any other cause..

All information in this publication is for educational and information

purposes only. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem,
consult your own physician. The publisher and author are not
responsible for any specific health or allergy needs that may require
medical supervision and are not liable for any damages or negative
consequences from any treatment, action, application or preparation, to
any person reading or following the information in this book. The
Information on This publication does not dispense medical or
professional advice, nor do they prescribe any treatment or strategy that
should be tested without the advice of a professional. This book is not
intended as a substitute for the medical advice of physicians. The reader
should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to his/her health
and particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis
or medical attention.
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Table of Contents

Disclaimer ............................................................................................4
FIGURES INDEX.................................................................................8
TABLES INDEX.................................................................................10
Chapter 1............................................................................................11
History of cupping therapy .............................................................12
History of cupping technique .........................................................16
chapter 2 .............................................................................................19
mechanism of action of cupping therapy......................................20
Meridians system theory .................................................................20
segment cupping therapy or reflex zones theory.........................33
pain gate theory.................................................................................36
prostaglandin theory ........................................................................37
endorphins and encephalin production theory............................37
increasing blood circulation theory................................................38
nitric oxide theory.............................................................................38
Genetic Theory ..................................................................................39
Effects of cupping therapy...............................................................40
Precautions and Contra-Indications...............................................41
Side effects of cupping therapy.......................................................41
Chapter 3............................................................................................43
Cupping Therapy Types and Equipment......................................44
Dr. Tamer’s classification of cupping therapy types: ..................47
Types of Cups....................................................................................48
Cupping therapy patient positions ................................................53
Cupping Therapy sets ......................................................................54
how to do cupping therapy............................................................. 56
Cupping Therapy for home use ..................................................... 56
Professional Cupping therapy practice ......................................... 56
CUPPING THERAPIST ................................................................... 56
protocol of Cupping Therapy Treatments .................................... 62
Pigment reactions of cup prints...................................................... 62
Chapter 4............................................................................................ 65
Cupping Therapy Points ................................................................. 66
Cupping Therapy points FOR SOME diseases ............................ 72
Cupping Therapy for health promotion........................................ 72
Cervical pain: .................................................................................... 73
Frozen Shoulder................................................................................ 75
Knee pain: .......................................................................................... 77
Acute Lumbar Sprain....................................................................... 80
Sciatica and low back pain .............................................................. 80
Rheumatoid Arthritis....................................................................... 83
Gout .................................................................................................... 85
Headache ........................................................................................... 89
Common cold.................................................................................... 92
Bronchitis ........................................................................................... 95
Acute Bronchitis................................................................................ 95
Chronic Bronchitis............................................................................ 96
Bronchial Asthma ............................................................................. 97
Irritable bowel syndrome & spastic colon .................................. 101
Chronic gastritis.............................................................................. 104
Diarrhea ........................................................................................... 107
Constipation ....................................................................................110
Hypertension ...................................................................................113
Facial paralysis ................................................................................116
Obesity and Weight Reduction.....................................................118
Diabetes Mellitus.............................................................................122
Hemorrhoids ...................................................................................125
Dysmenorrhea .................................................................................128
Amenorrhea.....................................................................................131
Urticaria............................................................................................134
Enuresis ............................................................................................136
Female infertility .............................................................................139
Male infertility.................................................................................142
Impotence:........................................................................................144
Prostatitis:.........................................................................................147
Chapter 5..........................................................................................149
cupping therapy clinical trials.......................................................150
Reference ..........................................................................................165
Chapter 6..........................................................................................169
Intersting Topics..............................................................................170

FIGURES INDEX

F IGURE1 THE FIVE ELEMENTS

...........................................................................21
FIGURE2 LUNG
MERIDIAN................................................................................23
FIGURE3 LARGE INTESTINE
MERIDIAN..............................................................24
FIGURE4 KIDNEY
MERIDIAN..............................................................................24
FIGURE5 HEART
MERIDIAN...............................................................................25
FIGURESMALL INTESTINE MERIDIAN6
..............................................................26
FIGURE7 PERICARDIUM
MERIDIAN....................................................................27
FIGURE8 SAN JIAO
MERIDIAN............................................................................27
FIGURE9 STOMACH
MERIDIAN...........................................................................28
FIGURE11 LIVER
MERIDIAN...............................................................................29
FIGURE11 GB
MERIDIAN...................................................................................29
FIGURE12 URINARY BLADDER
MERIDIAN.........................................................30
FIGURE13 SPLEEN
MERIDIAN.............................................................................31
FIGURE14 REN MERIDIAN
.................................................................................32
FIGURE15 DU
MERIDIAN...................................................................................33
FIGURE 16 REFLEX
ZONES...................................................................................34
FIGURE17 PAIN GATE
THEORY..........................................................................37
FIGURE18 NITRIC OXIDE
THEORY......................................................................38
FIGURE19 DRY CUPPING
...................................................................................44
FIGURE21 NEEDLE
CUPPING..............................................................................45
FIGURE21 HOT
CUPPING....................................................................................45
FIGURE22 LIGHT, MEDIUM AND STRONG
CUPPING..........................................45
FIGURE23 BLEEDING CUPPING
..........................................................................46
FIGURE24 WATER
CUPPING...............................................................................46

F IGURE 25 CLASSIFICATION OF CUPPING

TYPES................................................47
FIGURE 26 TYPES OF
CUPS..................................................................................52
FIGURE 27 SITTING
POSITIONS...........................................................................53

F IGURE28 PRONE
POSITION..............................................................................54
FIGURE29 SUPINE
POSITION..............................................................................54
FIGURE31 LYING ON ONE SIDE POSITION
.........................................................54
FIGURE31 CUPPING SKIN
REACTIONS...............................................................63
FIGURE 32 BACK POINTS
....................................................................................70 FIGURE 33
FRONT POINTS...................................................................................71
FIGURE34 HEALTH
PROMOTION.......................................................................72 FIGURE 35
CERVICAL PAIN.................................................................................74
FIGURE 36 FROZEN SHOULDER BACK
POINTS....................................................75

F IGURE 37 FROZEN SHOULDER FRONT POINTS

..................................................76
FIGURE 38 KNEE PAIN BACK POINTS
..................................................................78
FIGURE 39 KNEE PAIN FRONT POINTS
................................................................79
FIGURE 40 SCIATICA BACK
POINTS.....................................................................81
FIGURE 41RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS BACK POINTS
............................................83
FIGURE 42 RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS FRONT
POINTS..........................................84
FIGURE 43 GOUT BACK
POINTS...........................................................................87
FIGURE44 GOUT FRONT
POINTS........................................................................88
FIGURE 45 HEADACHE BACK
POINTS.................................................................90
FIGURE 46 HEADACHE FRONT
POINTS...............................................................91
FIGURE 47 COMMON COLD BACK
POINTS..........................................................93
FIGURE 48 COMMON COLD FRONT
POINTS........................................................94
FIGURE 49 BRONCHITIS FRONT
POINTS..............................................................95
FIGURE 50 BRONCHITIS BACK
POINTS................................................................96
FIGURE 51 BRONCHIAL ASTHMA BACK POINTS
.................................................98
FIGURE 52 BRONCHIAL ASTHMA FRONT POINTS
...............................................99
FIGURE 53 IBS BACK POINTS
.............................................................................103
FIGURE 54 IBS FRONT POINTS
...........................................................................104
FIGURE 55 CHRONIC GASTERITIS BACK POINTS
...............................................105
FIGURE56 CHRONIC GASTERITIS FRONT
POINTS.............................................106
FIGURE 57 DIARRHEA BACK
POINTS.................................................................108
FIGURE 58 DIARRHEA FRONT
POINTS...............................................................109
FIGURE 59 CONSTIPATION BACK
POINT...........................................................111
FIGURE 60 CONSTIPATION FRONT POINTS
.......................................................112
FIGURE 61 HYPERTENSION BACK
POINTS.........................................................115
FIGURE 62 FACIAL PARALYSIS FRONT
POINTS..................................................117
FIGURE 63 OBESITY BACK
POINTS.....................................................................119
FIGURE 64 OBESITY FRONT
POINTS...................................................................120
FIGURE 65 DIABETES BACK
POINTS..................................................................124
FIGURE 66 DIABETES FRONT
POINTS................................................................125
FIGURE 67 HEMORROIDS BACK POINTS
...........................................................127
FIGURE 68 HEMORROIDS FRONT POINTS
.........................................................128
FIGURE 69 DYSMENORRHEA FRONT POINTS
....................................................129 FIGURE 70 DYSMENORRHEA BACK
POINTS ......................................................130 FIGURE 71 AMENORRHEA
FRONT POINTS........................................................132 FIGURE 72
AMENORRHEA BACK POINTS..........................................................133
FIGURE 73 URTICARIA BACK POINTS
...............................................................135 FIGURE 74 ENURESIS BACK
POINTS..................................................................137
FIGURE 75 ENURESIS
FRONT POINTS.................................................................138 FIGURE 76
FEMALE INFERTILITY BACK POINTS.................................................140
FIGURE 77 FEMALE INFERTILITY FRONT
POINTS...............................................141 FIGURE 78 MALE INFERTILITY
BACK POINTS....................................................142 FIGURE 79 MALE
INFERTILITY FRONT POINTS..................................................143 FIGURE 80
IMPOTENCE BACK POINTS...............................................................145
FIGURE 81 IMPOTENCE FRONT
POINTS.............................................................146 FIGURE82 PROSTATITIS
BACK POINTS.............................................................147

FIGURE83 PROSTATITIS FRONT

POINTS...........................................................148
TABLES INDEX

T ABLE 1 THE TWELVE

MERIDIANS.....................................................................22
TABLE 2 REFLEX ZONES
......................................................................................35
TABLE 3 CLASSIFICATION OF CUPPING
SETS......................................................55
TABLE 4 FRONT
POINTS......................................................................................67
TABLE 5 BACK POINTS
........................................................................................68
CHAPTER 1
HISTORY OF CUPPING THERAPY

Cupping therapy is one of the oldest methods of healing. It has been

used for thousands of years effectively and was the cornerstone of
healing practice in these years. The practice of cupping covered the
whole world, east and west. No one knows exactly where the beginning
of cupping therapy practice was. Ancient Chinese and ancient Egyptians
were the first to practice cupping therapy. But in fact, the ancient
medical texts that

cupping therapy were written by ancient mentioned Egyptians.

History of cupping therapy in china

Chinese medicine is one of the oldest medical systems in the world.

TCM or traditional Chinese medicine uses many healing therapies and
practices including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and massage and
cupping therapy. Cupping therapy has been the cornerstone in Chinese
medicine and was used successfully for thousands of years for the
treatment of many illnesses. Cupping therapy is used to stimulate
acupuncture points and to remove Qi stagnation in the meridians and
organs.

stagnation in the meridians and organs.

341 a.d.) And described cupping as a handbook of prescriptions for

emergencies. Several centuries later another medical book Su Sen Liang
Fang recorded successful treatment of chronic cough and snake bites by
cupping therapy.

In the 1950th, the efficacy of cupping therapy was confirmed by medical

research, cooperation between China and Soviet Union and from this
date, cupping was practiced officially in all Chinese hospitals.
History of cupping therapy in Egypt

Cupping therapy was practiced in Egypt for thousands of years. The

ancient medical book Ebers papyrus, written in 1550 B.C.E. Mentioned
cupping therapy and stated that wet cupping can remove foreign matter
from the body. Ancient Egyptians prescribed cupping therapy for most of
the diseases and passed the art of cupping therapy to the Greeks.

Greek history of cupping

400 BCE

Hippocrates (460 BC –370 BC) is one of the most famous cupping

therapy users. And he is also one of the greatest
figures in the history of
medicine. He is also
called the father of
western medicine.
Hippocrates
recommended using
cupping therapy for a
variety of diseases. Samuel Bayfield
(1839) wrote, “Hippocrates was a minute
observer, and has left us some striking
remarks on the shape and application of
the cups. He recommends that they should
be small in diameter, conical in shape,
and light in their weight, even when the disease for which they are
applied is deeply seated”
Galen was one of the greatest physician and surgeons. He was also one
of the greatest medical researchers and contributed by his researches in
the fields of anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and
neurology. Galen was one of cupping therapy users and he condemned
Erasistratus, an Alexandrian physician, for not using cupping.
Herodotus was a famous historian and physician. He wrote, in 413 BC:

“ scarification with cupping possesses the power of evacuating

offending matter from the head; of diminishing pain of the same part;
of lessening inflammation; of restoring the appetite; of strengthening
a weak stomach; of removing vertigo and a tendency
towards
to faint; of drawing deep-seated offending matter the surface; of
drying up fluxions; checking
hemorrhages; promoting menstrual evacuations; arresting the
tendency to putrefaction in fevers; allaying rigors; accelerating and
moderating the crisis of diseases; removing a propensity to
somnolence; conciliating natural repose; removing heaviness. These,
and many analogous maladies, are relieved by the judicious
application of the Cucurbits (cups), dry or bloody.”

Then the art of cupping therapy was passed through the Alexandrians and
Byzantines to Arab Muslims" and Asians.
History of cupping therapy in Islam

Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) the prophet of Islam,

encouraged the use of cupping (hijama), saying “the hijama is the best of
your remedies”

Al-tibb al-nabawî was one of the famous Islamic books which was
written by Ibn Qayyim al jawziyya and mentioned cupping therapy as a
medical practice.

Muhammad Ibn zakariyā rāzī (august 26, 865 – 925) was one of the
best physicians and scientists in the history, he was the first to
differentiate smallpox from measles, and was described as the father of
pediatrics. He had benefited from cupping therapy in his treatment of
many diseases.

Ibn sīnā (Avicenna) (980– 1037) was one of the most famous
physicians. The most famous works by him are the book of healing and
the canon of medicine. The canon of medicine was used as a textbook in
the universities of Montpellier and living as late as 1650. The canon of
medicine book stated that cupping was known to be effective on more
than 30 different diseases.

History of cupping therapy in the west

From the Egyptians and Greeks, cupping was spread to the entire world.
Cupping therapy became a very popular therapy among European and
American doctors and was practiced successfully for a wide range of
diseases during the eighteenth century and after. Many published
research papers confirmed the efficacy of cupping therapy during the
nineteenth century. Charles Kennedy, a famous surgeon wrote, in 1826:

“ The art of cupping has been so well-known, and the benefits arising
from it so long experienced, that it is quite unnecessary to bring
forward testimonials in favor of what has received not only the
approbation of modern times, but also the sanction of the remotest
antiquity.”

Sir Arthur Keith (5 February 1866 – 7 January 1955): was a Scottish

anatomist and a fellow of the royal college of surgeons of England and
the president of the royal anthropological institute. He was famous
because he discovered the sino atrial node in 1907. Sir Arthur Keith
wrote how he witnessed cupping performed with excellent success.

In the UK the practice of cupping therapy also dates back a long way
with one of the leading medical journals „the lancet" being named after
this practice as it means the surgical instrument that can scrape the skin
to do cupping.

HISTORY OF CUPPING TECHNIQUE

The first technique used for cupping was horn therapy, this involved
using a hollow drilled horn with an opening on its tip and a piece of wax
or a wad of dried grass. The ancient therapist created the suction by
sucking air out by his mouth from the opening on the horn tip, then when
the preferred suction was achieved, he put the dried grass or waxes by
his tongue to close this opening.

Another method developed later, was by using bamboo and making cups
of it and closing one end by natural grass. They then boiled the bamboo
cups in a pot, then they put a small piece of paper and burned it on the
bottom of the bamboo cup to create the suction, a risk of this way of
creating the suction is the possibility of burning the patient"s skin.
Then during the 20th century, the therapists found and used glass cups.
Glass cups were one of best aided methods of therapists" skills because
they could see inside the cup and the ease of use and sterilization of
these cups.

Another method of suction was developed between 1930 and 1940 by

putting a valve at the top of the cup and made suction by a manual
suction pump that could make suction of air possible without fire. In
1940, many medical products companies began to make and sell these
cupping sets.

Scarificator bloodletting; featured a dozen retracing blades which were

fired by pulling a trigger. After cupping has drawn blood to the surface
of the skin this is was used in phlebotomy or

this spring-loaded instrument

SCARIFICAT OR RBCM HH1988.2.90A

used to produce a many cuts at the same moment as a part of bloodletting
therapy. Despite its ancient roots in Greek medicine this is no longer a
common medical practice

Now, there are many types of cupping sets, we will mention later and
various types of new cups have been developed. Also there are many
electrical cupping therapy machines which have been developed and
being used in beauty centers and hospitals.

Modern cupping therapy

Today there are thousands of centers around the world offering dry, wet
and massage cupping treatments and courses. They located around the
world including the USA, Germany, South Africa, Middle East, Turkey,
Asian countries and the United Kingdom. Many medical professional
associations and communities around the world support these modalities
and constructed to support practitioners and setting standards and
guidelines for practice and education and to support and encourage
research. Many insurance companies offer coverage for alternative and
complementary therapy treatments.

Many insurance companies offer professional liability coverage for

complementary and alternative medicine practitioners and therapists.

According to The National Health Interview Survey, adults in the United

States spent about $33.9 billion on alternative therapies in 2007. Most
of them ($22 billion) covered self-care products, materials, classes and
homeopathic medicine; and $11.9 billion was spent on practitioner
visits. There are 38.1 million adults made an estimated 354.2 million
visits to practitioners, most of these visits to body – based and
manipulative complementary and alternative medicine practitioners.

The growing number of cupping therapy researches introduced it to the

international medical community.
CHAPTER 2
MECHANISM OF ACTION OF CUPPING THERAPY
There are 8 theories explain the mechanism of cupping therapy.
The theories are:

1. Meridian system theory

2. Segment cupping therapy or reflex zone theory
3. Pain gate theory
4. Prostaglandin theory
5. Endorphins and encephalin production theory
6. Increasing blood circulation theory
7. Nitric oxide theory
8. Genetic Theory

MERIDIANS SYSTEM THEORY

The ancient Chinese believed that there was a distribution network to

distribute (Qi) and other substances to all the body parts. Qi is a vital
energy of the body. They also believed that cupping therapy can treat
stagnation of vital energy (Qi).

In Chinese language (meridian) is (Jing Luo). (Jing) means pathway and

represented the vertical channels and (Luo) means network and
represented the horizontal channels.

Acupuncture points are concentrating areas of (Qi) which were found on

the skin throughout meridian system. Meridian channel represented many
acupuncture points.
Stimulation of these points can lead to healing effects. Many ways can
stimulate these meridians and points.

(Qi) is divided into two equal and opposite forces, yin and yang. Yin
represented female, passive, cold, water and darkness. Yang
represented male, active, warm, fire and light. When these two forces
balanced they will work together to make the body in a healthy state and
any upset of yin and yang balance, diseases will be the result.

Body meridians are twenty channels, twelve of them are principal

meridians and eight of them are extra meridians. Among the eight extra
meridians, governing and conception vessels are the most important
extra meridians.

The Wu Xing (the five elements or phases):

The five elements or phases are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. It is
used to describe the interactions and relations between phenomena. Five
elements theory also maps the relation between different substances in
treatment and diagnosis.

Fire

Earth Wood

Metal

Water
 FIGURE1 THE FIVE ELEMENTS
The twelve meridians

The twelve meridians take their names from the corresponding organs.
There are six yin meridians and six yang meridians. Lung, heart,
pericardium, spleen, kidney and liver meridian are yin meridians. Large
intestine, small intestine, triple burner, stomach, bladder and gall
bladder are yang meridians.

TABLE 1 THE TWELVE MERIDIANS Location Yin and Meridians Qi flow

yang
Lung meridian 3 am- 5 am
Yin Heart meridian 11 am – 1 pm
Arm Pericardium meridian 7 pm – 9 pm
Yang Large intestine meridian 5 am- 7 am
Small intestine meridian 1 pm – 3 pm
San Jiao (triple burner ) 9 pm – 11 pm meridian
Leg Yin Spleen meridian 9 am – 11 am
Kidney meridian 5 pm – 7 pm
Liver meridian 1 am – 3 am
Yang Stomach meridian 7 am – 9 am
Bladder meridian 3 pm – 5 pm
Gall bladder meridian 11 pm – 1 am

This table represented the basic twelve channels; the name of each
meridian is corresponding to an organ. Also the chart represented the Qi
flow because Qi was prevalent in each channel at different times.

Lung meridian
 It is used to treat conditions related to the chest, lungs and nasal
diseases.
According to TCM theory, lungs were considered yin and belonged to
metal. Lungs were also belonged to white color and autumn season.

FIGURE2 LUNG
MERIDIAN

Large intestine channel

The lungs (yin) and large intestine (yang) were considered paired
opposite organs. They also have the same characters in five elements
theory.

It is used to treat diseases related to head, nose, throat, intestines, face

and febrile diseases

FIGURE 3 LARGE
INTESTINE
MERIDIAN

Kidney channel

It is used to treat genital, urinary, abdominal and psychiatry

(emotional) conditions. The kidneys are (yin) and paired with the
urinary bladder (yang). The kidneys according to TCM theory is the
store of the original essence, so it is the responsible organ for growth,
development and reproduction.

FIGURE
4KIDNEY
MERIDIAN

Heart channel

It is used to treat heart, chest, sleep and emotional diseases.

The heart is (yin) and is paired with the small intestine (yang) organ.

FIGURE
5HEART
MERIDIAN
 Small intestine channel
It is used to treat head, neck, shoulders and eye diseases. The small
intestine channel is (yang) , (fire ) in five phases theory, hot climate and
summer season.
FIGURESMALL
INTESTINE MERIDIAN
6

Pericardium channel

It is used mainly to treat nausea, heart and lung conditions.

The pericardium channel is (yin) organ and the San Jiao (yang) are
paired organs.
FIGURE
7PERICARDIUM
MERIDIAN

San Jiao (triple warmer) channel

It is used to treat ears, eyes, chest, throat and shoulders diseases.
 FIGURE8 SAN JIAO
MERIDIAN

Stomach channel
It is used to treat conditions related to head, throat, digestion, face and
energy.
FIGURE9 STOMACH MERIDIAN

Liver channel

It is used to treat conditions of mental, digestive and urogenital system

origin.

The liver is (yin) and is paired with gall bladder (yang) organ. They
belong to wood in five phases theory, spring, and green color.

FIGURE
11LIVER
MERIDIAN

Gall Bladder channel

It is used to treat migraine and headaches, muscular pain, eye

problems, chest and febrile conditions.

The Gall bladder is (yang) and is paired with liver (yin) organ.

FIGURE11 GB
MERIDIAN
Urinary bladder channel
It is the most used channel in cupping therapy. It is also used to treat
many diseases.
The Urinary bladder is (yang) and is paired with kidney (yin) organ.
FIGURE 12 URINARY
BLADDER
MERIDIAN

Spleen channel

It is used mainly to treat spleen, stomach, intestines, urinary and

genital problems.

The spleen is (yin) and is paired with stomach (yang). They belong to
earth in five phases, yellow color and the end of summer.
 FIGURE13 SPLEEN
MERIDIAN

Ren channel (conception vessel)

It is used to treat conditions of infertility, urinary and digestive origin.
 FIGURE14 REN
MERIDIAN

DU channel (governing vessel)

One of the most used channels in cupping therapy. The figure 15
shows The DU channel and its distribution points.
FIGURE15 DU MERIDIAN

SEGMENT CUPPING THERAPY OR REFLEX ZONES THEORY

There are nervous connections and paths between internal organs and
the skin.

Segment therapy is a treatment applied to the reflex zone area which has
the same connection with the treated internal organ. The internal organ –
skin connections was known and used by all civilizations to relieve
pain. And this connection was also observed by the British neurologist
(Henry Head) who lived between 1861 and 1940. Later on, other
scientists explain and prove the relation between internal organs and the
skin through the autonomic nervous system.
FIGURE 16 REFLEX ZONES
The body is divided into segments that begin with every vertebra.

Spinal nerves carry motor, sensory and autonomic signals between the
spinal cord and the body. The spinal nerves are 31 left- right pairs, and
are corresponding to the segment of the vertebral column. On the 7th
cervical vertebra at the end of the neck, an elevation named (hormone
hump), as it is used by cupping therapists to treat conditions related to
hormonal imbalance such as diabetes mellitus, pituitary gland diseases
and ovarian dysfunction.

The following table describes the internal organs and related reflex
zone:

The organ
Heart
Aorta
Lung and pleura Esophagus
Stomach
Duodenum
Liver and gall bladder
Pancreas
Spleen
Appendix
Rectum
Kidney
Urinary bladder Uterus
Ovary
Testicle
Colon
C=cervical vertebra, t= thoracic vertebra, l= lumbar vertebra, s= sacrum
vertebra
TABLE 2 REFLEX ZONES

Location of reflex zone Head zones c3, c4, c8 to t9 C3, c4, c8 and t6
C3, c4, t2 to t9
T3 to t5
C3, c4, t5 to t9
C3, c4, t8, t10
C3, c4, t6 to t10

C4, t7 to t9
C3, c4, t7
C3, c4, t11 to l1 L5 to s5
C4, t9 to l2
T11 to s2
T12 to l4
T11 to l4
T12 to l3
C3, c4, t11 to l1

In brief, the diseased organ sends a signal to the skin through the
autonomic nerves, the skin responds by becoming tender, painful or
swelling.

In opposite, skin also can send stimulus signals to the internal organs.
It can explain why angina pectoris occurs in cold weather because a
sudden cooling of the breast area can lead to a mortal heart attack. And
on the other hand, skin can have a therapeutic effect on internal organs.

The skin receptors are activated by applying cups to the skin. So this
will increase the blood circulation and blood supply to the skin and to
the internal organs through the nervous connections.

Then cupping has double effects. It stimulates the skin local

circulation, and stimulates the internal organ circulation, and in a few
days connective tissue metabolism.

This activates the body through autonomic nervous regulation system

to come to health state again.
PAIN GATE THEORY

This theory stated that there is a gate or channel to transfer pain

signals from its actual area or organ to the brain. Because of this, we can
feel the pain.

There are gates and channels that transmit the pain in our body. And
when we do cupping therapy, the channel transmits pain from the
cupping area to the brain that interferes with the actual pain which can"t
transmit in the same gate or channel and this leads to kill the actual pain.

Pain nerves
 The Gate

Transmissionopen the gate

nerve
cells

nerves close the

other senseory

gate
 Message from Message to the the brain
brain

FIGURE17 PAIN GATE THEORY

PROSTAGLANDIN THEORY

Prostaglandins are products of inflammation in our body. Prostaglandins

transmit pain signals to the brain. By doing wet cupping therapy we take
these products out from the body and this kills the pain.

ENDORPHINS AND ENCEPHALIN PRODUCTION THEORY

These are natural components released in our body and these

components are called “endogenous pleasure substances” which reduce
the pain and enhance the mood.

INCREASING BLOOD CIRCULATION THEORY

Cupping therapy can increase blood circulation as a result of applying

the negative pressure, hemodynamic mechanism and removing the
inflammatory products and toxins out by wet cupping. It's expected to
reduce inflammation and pain.
NITRIC OXIDE THEORY

N O
NO
FIGURE18 NITRIC OXIDE THEORY The researchers Ferid Murad, Ignarro and
Furchgott, discovered nitric oxide. They won the Nobel Prize of
medicine 1998

Nitric Oxide is a very important substance that released in the body as a

result of any trauma. It is released also during and after cupping therapy.

Functions of nitric oxide are:

1. Vasodilatation: this gives more blood to the area and has 2 ways
vasodilatation effects
2. Muscle relaxation which cures spasms.
3. Anti-thrombotic: It protects the blood vessels from thrombosis.
4. Decrease of inflammation
5. Prevent stenosis of blood vessels as inhibit proliferation of the blood
vessels walls.

If there is an abnormality in nitric oxide release, this will lead to

many diseases such as: obesity, hypertension, heart failure and many
other diseases. All these effects can be obtained by cupping therapy

GENETIC THEORY

In a recent study in Canada by Mark Tarnopolsky and others found that

massage therapy can help repair exercise induced muscle damage by
decreasing inflammation and renewing mitochondria. They reported that
five genes were differentially expressed after massage therapy which
played a role in altering inflammation process.

Cupping therapy is also a massage process. You can do massage

cupping for the same conditions but cupping massage is deeper than
regular massage. So cupping therapy theoretically can induce the same
effect.
 A medical trial is needed to confirm this theory.
EFFECTS OF CUPPING THERAPY
The benefits and effects of cupping therapy are:

1. Increase blood circulation in general and especially in the area

treated
2. Remove toxins and inflammatory products from the body or it move it
from important areas such as (organs) to less important areas such as
(skin)
3. Increase immunity by stimulation of body immune mechanism.
4. Kill or reduce body pains
5. Stabilize the mood by stimulating release of certain body substance
6. Stimulate production of NO with all its benefits
7. Regulate and balance hormones
8. Stimulate ovulation in women
9. Regulate intestinal motility

We can explain the effects of cupping as

1. An action on the blood supply regulation.

2. A regulation of the acid-base conditions.
3. A regulation and modulation of the immune system.
4. A regulation of the hormonal system.
5. A genetic action (activation and deactivation).
6. A regulation of neurotransmitters and nervous system.
7. Stimulation and regulation of lymphatic drainage system.
8. A regulation of the coagulation and the anti-coagulation systems.

PRECAUTIONS AND CONTRAINDICATIONS

Always take sensible precautions when using cupping. These may
include:

Sterilization: this is the main key to success

Use suitable Cups for the area being treated.
Take extra Care with children and the elderly. Do not apply strong
cupping especially for the face. Do not apply strong cupping for
elderly or children. Do not treat pregnant women.
Do not use cupping on inflamed skin.
Take Extra Care when scraping the skin and do not cut a

vein or artery.
Do not treat people with a serious heart disease. Do not use
cupping therapy for severely ill people.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CUPPING THERAPY

If we do cupping therapy accurately and in a true way there are no side
effects. Malpractice may produce many side effects.

A mild to moderate bruising or skin discoloration to bluish color is

common and it will resolve in a few days. Fainting may occur especially
with wet cupping therapy but it is usually a self-limited condition. If
fainting occurred, remove cups immediately, lay the patient flat on his
back, elevate the legs, and loose the tight clothing. Shake the patient; if
s/he does not respond refer immediately to health care professional. If
there is a blue face, difficulty breathing, chest pain, slow heartbeats, or
confusion call the emergency number or refer to the nearest hospital.

We must tell the patient about all expected side effects. In some rare
conditions when we let the cup more than ten minutes skin burn may
occur and must be treated as a true burn.

Repeated excessive cupping therapy by unqualified cupping therapists

may lead to anemia and skin pigmentations as reported by a study
conducted in Korea by GI Young Yang et al. 1

Koebner phenomenon was common in psoriasis patients. A letter

published in a dermatology online journal reported a patient with
psoriasis who was treated by cupping therapy and subsequently
developed the koebner phenomenon at the cupped sites.2

Michelle Gellis, a licensed, Board Certified acupuncturist (NCCAOM)

and a faculty member of the Tai Sophia Institute (USA) said “The most
noted side effect of cupping is the marks that it can leave. I deal with this
by first speaking with my patient and telling them that there may be
marks on them after I am done. If at all possible I move the cups
frequently as not to leave marks on the skin. Occasionally there is
localized pain along the channel when cupping, such as with cupping
down the leg or on the lower back. In this case, less suction is used.”

Abdel Nasser Towhid, PHD said: “ Fainting sometimes occurs but this
is not considered a side effect this is a reaction and putting the patient in
recumbent position or on one side could solve this problem that occurs
less than 2% of patients if Hijama done correctly. “

References:

1. Kun Hyung Kim,Tae-Hun Kim,Min Hwangbo,Gi Young Yang -

Anaemia and skin pigmentation after excessive cupping therapy by an
unqualified therapist in Korea: a case report- Acupunct Med
2012;30:227-228
doi:10.1136/acupmed-2012-010185

2. Yu, Rui-xing; Hui, Yun; & Li, Cheng-rang. (2013). Köebner

phenomenon induced by cupping therapy in a psoriasis patient.
Dermatology Online Journal, 19(6). doj_18575. Retrieved from:
http://escholarship.org/uc/item/2nq0903z
CHAPTER 3
CUPPING THERAPY TYPES AND EQUIPMENT
Types of cupping:
There are various different types of cupping such as:

Dry cupping: dry cupping therapy can be light / medium

or strong according to the suction power.

Light cupping : create a weak suction in the cup to conduct light

cupping; it is suitable for children and the elderly people.
Medium cupping : a medium strength, general purpose cupping.

Strong cupping: suction will be intense and

FIGURE19 DRY CUPPING

therefore it is not suitable

for children and elderly people.
Moving or massage cupping is a great method of massage and is
conducted by applying oil to the skin and moving the cup, by a weak
suction, on the treated area. A partial light vacuum is created which
enables to cup to be moved around the body site to be treated.

Needle cupping:
acupuncture and cupping are conducted simultaneously in the same place
by applying the needle first then the cup is applied over it.
 FIGURE21 NEEDLE CUPPING

Hot cupping : dried Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) leaves, sometimes

called by its oriental name Moxa is a great warming herb. We use a
needle, warmed by dried Mugwort, and then the cup is applied over it.

Flash cupping is the name given when several medium cupping is

performed several times in quick succession along the area being
treated.

FIGURE21 HOT CUPPING

FIGURE22 LIGHT, MEDIUM AND STRONG CUPPING

Wet (Bleeding) cupping , also called full cupping or wet cupping, it is

the most
frequently used, oldest and often most effective method. A surgical
instrument is used to scrape the skin and the cup is
then applied to collect blood. FIGURE23 BLEEDING CUPPING

It is called Al Hijama in Arabic. And it is very popular in Germany, UK,

China, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Iran, South Africa and all Arab
countries

Herbal cupping : we put a suitable herbal tincture into the cup then
apply the suction.

Water cupping is the least

practiced method. It involves
filling a third of the cup with
warm water. Whilst holding the
cup close to the client with oneFIGURE24 WATER hand, bring it close to the
point CUPPING to be cupped and insert

burning cotton wool into the cup, then swiftly and simultaneously turn the
cup onto the skin. When performed properly, no water spillage occurs.

Ice cupping therapy:

We Use ice in the cup in some cases of pain.
DR. TAMER’S CLASSIFICATION OF CUPPING THERAPY
TYPES:

power of Technical Suction Types related

types

Method Materials of suction inside related cups

Types
related types

Dry
CuppingLight
Herbal Fire

cuppingIce

water
medium
Manual Ozone cupping cupping Wet

Cupping
Massage
 cuppingHot or Moxa

Electrical
cupping
Needle

Magnetic

Area treated related

types
Pedi
Cupping
Abdominal Cupping
Facial
cupping

Orthopedic cupping
Flash strong cupping
FIGURE 25 CLASSIFICATION OF CUPPING TYPES

Cupping therapy types can be classified into five main types, technical
types which include dry, wet, massage and flash cupping therapy. The
second is the power of suction related types which include light, medium
and strong cupping therapy. The third is a method of suction related
types which include fire, manual suction, and electrical suction cupping
therapy. The fourth is materials inside cups related types which include
herbal, water, ozone, Moxa, needle and magnetic cupping therapy. The
fifth is area treated related types.

TYPES OF CUPS
There are many types of cups used from animal horns used in the past to
most modern cups
Plastic cups
It is made from clear plastic material with a valve attached to the top;
used with manual or automatic vacuum apparatus.

Advantage:
Easy to use
Disposable (one time use) and sterile Inexpensive

Self-Suction Cups

These cups are made from plastic and there is a handle of rubber
attached to the top of the cup; or a top rotator to apply suction these cups
are used for dry cupping in children and old people

Disadvantage:
Limit suction power; you can do only light and medium dry cupping
by it.
Bamboo cups
Cups are made from bamboo and used mainly in China.
There are some disadvantages of these cups:

Difficult in cleaning
Inadequate sterilization
Very sharp edges
The therapist can't see inside the cup to see the blood in

wet cupping type or the skin

More expensive
 Glass cups
Cups made from glass material with or without valve

Advantage:
Thick edges more than bamboo
Inexpensive
Easy to clean and sterilize
Easy to use and the cups are clear so the therapist can see

inside the cup

Disadvantage:
Breakable
 Rubber cups
Cups made from rubber material

Advantage:
Strong suction
Can be used on sensitive areas because of the smooth

edges
Disadvantage:
Can't be sterilized so these cups are for one use or for personal use
only

Magnetic Cups

These cups are made from clear hard plastic with a magnetic probe or
plate inside the cup
These cups are used to stimulate the energy by cupping and by magnets .
They have many types with various sizes

These cups are for personal use.

 Plastic Glass

Rubber Bamboo Magnetic Self Cups Cups Cups Cups CupsSuction

Cups
FIGURE 26 TYPES OF CUPS

Cupping equipment

1. Massage chair or table

2. Sterilizing solution
3. Cups of various sizes or cupping set
4. Vacuum pump
5. Acupuncture needles
6. Olive oil or lavender oil
7. Hand gloves and face masks
8. Surgical lancets
9. Moxa
10. Herbal remedies

CUPPING THERAPY PATIENT POSITIONS

1. Sitting Position: you can use a massage chair, a massage table or an

ordinary table and chair. This position is not preferred for the new
patients especially who do cupping for the first time.

2. Supine Position or Lying on Back position.

3. Lying on one side (left or right) position.
4. Prone position or Lying face down: the best position for first time
cupping therapy session.
FIGURE 27 SITTING POSITIONS

FIGURE28 PRONE POSITION

FIGURE29 SUPINE POSITION

FIGURE31 LYING ON ONE SIDE POSITION

CUPPING THERAPY SETS

We can classify cupping therapy sets to:

We can classify cupping therapy sets to: Cupping sets related to the
types of cups
Plastic Cupping sets
Glass cupping sets
Rubber cupping sets
Bamboo cupping set
Bamboo cupping set
Cupping sets related to the methods of suction: Manual cupping
sets
Automatic cupping sets
Self-suction cupping sets
Self-suction cupping sets
Cupping sets related to the uses
Facial Cupping Sets
Female cupping set (for breast enlargement) Male cupping sets
Massage cupping sets
TABLE 3 CLASSIFICATION OF CUPPING SETS
Cupping sets related to the uses

1. Facial
Cupping Sets

2. Female cupping set (for breast

enlargeme nt)

3. Male
cupping sets

4. Massage cupping sets

Cupping sets related to the methods of suction

1. Manual
cupping sets
2. Automatic cupping sets
3. Self-suction cupping sets

Cupping sets related to the types of cups

1. Plastic Cuppin g sets

2. Glass
cupping sets

3. Rubber cupping sets

4. Bamboo cupping set

HOW TO DO CUPPING THERAPY

Cupping therapy is a traditional therapy. You can use cupping therapy

for home or personal use. Cupping therapists and professional
healthcare workers use cupping therapy professionally to treat patients
in their licensed clinics.

CUPPING THERAPY FOR HOME USE

Cupping therapy is simple and easy. People around the world used it for
thousands of years. It is recommended to use a Plastic cupping set with a
manual suction pump. You can easily follow the instructions to do dry,
flash or massage cupping therapy. One day training is recommended to
use cupping therapy safely at your home. You can use it for protective
purposes or for simple ailments and pains.

PROFESSIONAL CUPPING THERAPY PRACTICE

CUPPING THERAPIST

Cupping therapist is a recognized profession by the international

classification of health workers (published by The World Health
Organization). It is based on The International Standard Classification of
Occupation (ISCO, 2008 revision) under the code (3230).

The Clinic:
Every cupping therapy clinic shall be maintained in a clean and
sanitary condition at all times.
If the cupping therapist will use non disposable equipment such as glass
cups, there shall be functioning sterilization equipment.
The clinic must be equipped with professional cupping sets, suitable
number of various types of cups.
Treating patients:

The cupping therapist"s hands shall be brush-scrubbed with soap and

warm water immediately before examining patients or handling cupping
cups and other instruments, and between patients. You should keep the
cups in a sterile container or box.

Cupping points, if you will do wet cupping, shall be cleaned with an

appropriate antiseptic before scraping the skin and after cupping.

Any complication, including uncontrolled fainting, bleeding or other

complication arising out of cupping treatment shall be referred
immediately to a hospital. Always use disposable cups and instruments.
Discard all used instruments after the treatment safely. Lancets shall be
disposed of by placing them in a sealed, unbreakable container. Follow
instructions of your licensed authority. Keep complete and accurate
records on each patient who is given cupping treatment in your clinic.

Cupping therapist - Patient relationship

A patient must have confidence in the competence of their cupping

therapist. For therapists, the establishment of good rapport with a patient
is important. The quality of the patient-therapist relationship is important
to both parties. The better the relationship in terms of respect, trust and
knowledge, the better the quality of treatment session. Formal
relationship is recommended at first but some familiarity with a therapist
is recommended to make it easier for the patient to talk about the disease
and be comfortable during the cupping session. Do not tell your patients
that cupping can treat a disease without scientific evidence.

How to do cupping Therapy?

General steps:

Inform the patient about what you will do

Let the patient read and sign the written consent Take the patient
medical history
Check the patient physical condition
Determine the point or points of treatment
Choose the most appropriate type of cupping therapy

according to the age and the disease

Choose the most comfortable and suitable position for the
patient. Lying positions are more comfortable and safer Choose the
suitable cup size for the area treated.

Other steps include:

Wet or full cupping

Wear your personal protective equipment

Choose and define the cupping points you will do. Sterilize the skin
with a suitable antiseptic solution. Put the cups and apply medium
suction
Leave the cup for 3 to 5 minutes
Remove the cup
Use the surgical blade or lancet to scrape skin to make

scratches 0.3 to 0.5 cm in height and 0.1 to 0.4 mm in depth

Be careful and made very small scratches from above downwards in

the circle produced by the cup and make scratches in horizontal order in
3 or 4 rows
 Put the cup again
Apply suction
Blood and sometimes gases get out from the scratches to

fill the cup.

Leave the cup for 3 to 5 minutes.
Remove the cup and carefully clean the skin..
Repeat this again for 2 to 3 times
Repeat this operation for every point
You can do 3 to 5 points per session.
Always begin with pain points = get more positive results. Don't
let too much blood get out, only 50 cc
After the treatment setting permanently get rid of all used

equipment.
Wash your hands before and after the treatment

The typical treatment program is 1 treatment per month for 3 months,

it can be used more frequently (every 2 weeks) for difficult cases.

Massage cupping

After doing general steps Define your treatment area. Put a few
drops of olive or lavender oil on the skin. Massage the skin with your
hand first.
Put the a medium cup.
Apply light suction.
Begin to move the cup slowly across the area
If the patient feels pain, remove the cup then apply the

cup with a decrease in suction power until the patient feels comfortable

Move the cup in straight directions. And circle around the patient's
muscles.
The treatment setting takes from 20 to 30 minutes.

The typical treatment program is 2 to 3 times per week for 10

sessions.
Dry cupping therapy

Apply general steps

Put the cup and apply suction.
Leave the cup for 5 to 10 minutes according to the suction

power
Remove the cup
You can use any number of points
You can do many points at the same time
It is a powerful method which everyone can do You can use the
cups for yourself many times
This type is suitable for home use

The typical treatment program is 10 sessions daily or day after day.

Needle cupping
After applying general steps.

Insert the needle in the selected point

Put the cup above the needle
Apply suction
Leave the cup for 5 minutes
Remove the cup
Remove the needle
Water cupping

Do general measures
Fill one third of the cup of warm water
Be careful and stand close to the point
Apply the cup to the point
If you do it quickly and truly, no water spillage will occur Leave
the cup for 5 minutes
Carefully remove the cup by adding the cup in the true

position by asking the patient to move to correct the position of the cup
and put the water into the cup not the skin.

PROTOCOL OF CUPPING THERAPY TREATMENTS

(Treatment Programs)

There are many researches and studies used various protocols. Cupping
therapy number of treatments varies according to the type of cupping
therapy used, patient health condition and disease.

Mohammed Abd Elgawad, a chest specialist and a published researcher

who published a research in Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and
Occupational Therapy under title of “evaluation of Cupping Therapy as
an adjuvant therapy in the management of bronchial asthma” said “I use
wet cupping therapy type. I prescribe cupping therapy for 3 – 4 times
These treatments are spaced once / month”

Michelle Gellis, a licensed, Board Certified acupuncturist (NCCAOM)

and a faculty member of the Tai Sophia Institute (USA) said ” The
number of treatments is highly dependent on the type of condition I am
treating. In the early stages (tai yang) of a disease, a 'cold' in western
medicine, one or two treatments of cupping in two consecutive days can
usually expel the pathogen. For pain related issues such as back, hip,
shoulder pain, I tell my patients it will typically take a minimum of six
treatments. Sometimes relief is felt after the first treatment, but for the
effects to last, patients should continue treatment beyond the initial
relief. These treatments are usually once a week .A full course of facial
rejuvenation acupuncture and cupping treatments is from 12-20
treatments. This range depends on the health of the skin and the lifestyle
of the patient. These treatments are spaced either once or twice a week.”

PIGMENT REACTIONS OF CUP PRINTS

Cupping therapy reactions are listed as follows:

1. Dark purple & black colors indicate deficient blood supply and blood
stasis.
2. Scattered purple points indicate diseases of stagnancy of Qi and
blood stasis.
3. Bright red color generally indicates diseases of deficiency of yin.
4. Dark red color indicates diseases of high blood fat and heat pathogen.
5. Cold and pale white color indicated diseases of cold deficiency and
pathogenic damp.
6. Bright Pink color indicates healthy areas
FIGURE31 CUPPING SKIN REACTIONS
CHAPTER 4
CUPPING THERAPY POINTS

In my professional guide to cupping therapy I put the points according to

meridian system. In this book I put a classification for the most important
cupping therapy points. This new classification is for discussion and
feedback from doctors, researchers and therapists.

This classification is (Front & Back Points Classification) (FBP)

characterized by:

characterized by: Frontal points are beginning with the letter (F).
Frontal points are beginning with the letter (F).
Back points are beginning with the letter (B).
Back points are beginning with the letter (B).
Right points are ending with (R) letter.
Right points are ending with (R) letter.
Left points are ending with (L) letter.

It includes the most important 51 points, 25 on the front and 26 on the

back.
Note: This classification does not contain all cupping points.
Example
If the point is F 7-L, This means Point number 7 on the left side of front
of the body.
Some Expected benefits of the cupping therapy most important points.
Front Points
TABLE 4 FRONT POINTS

Point Uses
F1 Cough, bronchial asthma, bronchitis, pharyngitis and to enhance
respiratory muscles
 F2 Chest pain, bronchial asthma, bronchitis, and to increase immunity
F3 Chest pains, bronchial asthma, bronchitis, cough.
F4 Gastritis, spastic colon, digestion problems.
F5 Gastritis, spastic colon, diabetes
F6 Disorders of menstruation, vaginal disorders, male and female
infertility.
F7 Bronchitis, bronchial asthma, cough.
F8 Chest pain, liver disorders.
F9 Liver disorders, diabetes
F10 Constipation, pains, diarrhea.
F11 Ovarian disorders, menstruation disorders, male and female
infertility.
F12 Disorders of menstruation, female infertility, nocturnal enuresis..
F13 Shoulder pain and shoulder arthritis.
F14 Pain in thigh
F15 Knee pain, knee arthritis, gout, hip pains.
F16 Knee pain, knee arthritis, gout, menstruation disorders, thigh
pains
F17 Knee pain, knee arthritis, gout, menstruation disorders, pains
F18 Nocturnal enuresis, disorders of menstruation, dysmenorrhea
F19 Nocturnal enuresis, disorders of menstruation, dysmenorrhea
F20 Liver disorders, amenorrhea, disorders of menstruation,
nocturnal enuresis.
F22 Trigeminal neuralgia, headache, migraine, facial paralysis and
eye disorders
F23 Ear disorders and inflammation, and pains in mandible.
F24 Sinusitis, nasal disorders, trigeminal neuralgia, facial paralysis
F25 Facial paralysis

Back Points
TABLE 5 BACK POINTS
Point Uses
B1 First main point in wet cupping. It has many benefits for many
diseases.

B2 Bronchitis, bronchial asthma, and back pain

 B3 Main points in wet cupping therapy. Used for back pains, and for
many diseases as we will mention later.
B4 Chest pain, bronchial asthma.

B5 Some liver disorders, back pain. B6 Gastritis, diabetes

mellitus.
B7 Low back pain, impotence, disorders

of menstruation
B8 Back pain, impotence, disorders of menstruation.

B9 Impotence, male infertility, and low back pain

B10 Prostatitis, impotence, and low back pain
B11 Prostatitis, impotence, and
hemorrhoids
B12 Stiff neck, cough, back pain.
B13 Bronchitis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia, back pain.
B14 Frozen shoulders, shoulder pains
B15 Gastritis, diabetes mellitus.
B16 Lower back pain, impotence, disorders of menstruation.
B17 Lower back pain, impotence, irregular menstruation.
B18 Vertebral diseases
B19 Elbow arthritis.
B20 Sciatica, hip pain
B21 Lower back pain, sciatica, leg pains
B22 Lower back pain, sciatica, leg pains.
B23 Lower back pain, sciatica, leg pains, knee arthritis.
B24 Sciatica, pains in leg, muscle cramps, rheumatoid arthritis.
B25 Headache, migraine, insomnia, epilepsy, hypertension
B26 Ear & eye disorders
FIGURE 32 BACK POINTS
FIGURE 33 FRONT POINTS

CUPPING THERAPY POINTS FOR SOME

DISEASES

CUPPING THERAPY FOR HEALTH PROMOTION

FIGURE34 HEALTH PROMOTION

You can use these points for protective purposes and for health
promotion.
Meridians classification Points:
Meridians classification Points:
Du 14
Du 14
BL 17 on both sides
Cupping FBP classification Points:
Cupping FBP classification Points:
B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
Research:

Kaleem Ullah and Ahmed Younis - An investigation into the effect of

Cupping Therapy as a treatment for Anterior Knee Pain and its potential
role in Health Promotion. The Internet Journal of Alternative Medicine -
4(1). 2007.

CERVICAL PAIN:

Cervical pain is a pain in the neck region. The most common causes are
trauma, muscle sprains, cervical disc prolapse, cervical vertebra
diseases and other musculoskeletal diseases.

Cupping Points

Cupping Points B1
B1
B2
B2
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B12-L and B12-R

The cup always stimulates and involves more than one point because of
the size of the cup in relation to the needle.
FIGURE 35 CERVICAL PAIN
Clinical Case:
A man 46 years old was suffering from cervical pain and inability to
rotate easily his neck due to cervical disc prolapse.

After 3 wet cupping treatments, one each month, the severe pain was
relieved, he was able to move his neck easily and he returned to his
normal life.

Research:
Author: WAN Xue-wen

Conclusion : “Research findings suggest acupuncture and cupping

works well for all patterns of cervical spondylosis and can improve
cervical sclerodesmia or calcification.”

Reference: WAN Xue-wen. Clinical Observation on

Treatment of Cervical Spondylosis with Combined Acupuncture and

Cupping Therapies DOI: 10.1007/s11726-007-0345-5

FROZEN SHOULDER

FIGURE 36 FROZEN SHOULDER BACK POINTS Causes:

Its causes are not fully understood. It may be due to other diseases such
as diabetes, cardiac diseases and thyroid diseases or prolonged
shoulder immobilization after surgery or accidents.

Symptoms:

Shoulder pain and stiffness

Then shoulder is very hard to move

It occurs in Women more than men

People between forty and sixty years are usually affected.

FIGURE 37 FROZEN SHOULDER FRONT POINTS

Cupping Therapy Points:

Back points are:
Back points are:
B1
B1
B12-L and B12-R
Front points:
Front points:
F7 On the affected side or both (F7-R and F7-L)
Clinical Case:

An Italian man 67 years old suffered from frozen shoulder for more than
5 years. He was unable to raise his arms to his head level. There is a
difficulty in shoulder movement. Massage cupping for back and shoulder
area followed by wet cupping therapy for one session was the treatment.
Immediately after the session, he was able to raise his hands over his
head, and move easily his shoulder.

Research:

Dorina Sohn, Hyunmin Yoon, Hyangmi Jung, Effects of Dry Cupping

Therapy on Shoulder Pain and Fatigue in NursesJournal of Acupuncture
and Meridian Studies 1 December 2011 (volume 4 issue 4 Page 269
DOI:
10.1016/j.jams.2011.10.009)

KNEE PAIN:
We here take the anatomical position as our guide to do cupping around
the knee and at the painful areas.
Cupping Points:
Back Points:
Back Points:
B1
B1
B23 on the affected side
FIGURE 38 KNEE PAIN BACK POINTS
Front points (On affected side left or right):

Front points (On affected side left or right): F15

F15
F16
F16
F17
F17
F18
FIGURE 39 KNEE PAIN FRONT POINTS
Clinical Case:

A man 35 years old was suffering from knee pain and arthritis. He was
feeling severe pain when he walked. He had three wet cupping therapy
treatments. He begins to feel a decrease of pain from the first session.
He was completely relieved after 4 sessions.

Research:
Research: K Ullah, A Younis, M Wali. An investigation into the effect
of Cupping Therapy as a treatment for Anterior Knee Pain and its
potential role in Health Promotion.. The Internet Journal of Alternative
Medicine. 2006 Volume 4 Number 1.

Journal of Alternative Medicine. 2006 Volume 4 Number 1.

Michael Teut, Stefan Kaiser, Miriam Ortiz, Stephanie Roll, Sylvia

Binting, Stefan N Willich and Benno Brinkhaus Pulsatile dry cupping in
patients with osteoarthritis of the knee – a randomized controlled
exploratory trial - BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine
2012, 12:184 doi:10.1186/1472-6882-12-184
ACUTE LUMBAR SPRAIN
Causes:

Excessive physical demands on Spine

Lifting heavy objects

Accidents

Heavy exercise

Symptoms:

Back sharp pain

Pain during movement

Difficulty in movement

May be swelling or stiffness

SCIATICA AND LOW BACK PAIN

Sciatica is a symptom of a medical condition not a condition itself and it

refers to a pain, weakness and leg numbness due to injury to or a
pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Causes:

Pelvic injuries

Pelvic fractures
Tumors

Spinal disc herniation (pressing on sciatic nerve)

Some pain syndromes

Symptoms:
Dull pain

Pain which may be worse at night or with coughing

Mild tingling or burning sensation

Sharp pain on one side of hip and numbness in other parts of the leg. The
pain may also be felt at the back of the calf or on the sole of the foot.
FIGURE 40 SCIATICA BACK POINTS
Cupping Therapy points
Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B9
B9
B17-L and B17-R
B17-L and B17-R
B20 on the affected side
B20 on the affected side
B21 on the affected side
B21 on the affected side
B22 on the affected side
B22 on the affected side
B23 on the affected side
B23 on the affected side
B24 on the affected side

Front point:
Front point:
F17 on affected side
Clinical case:

A man 52 years old was suffering from sciatica and severe low back
pain. After 4 massage cupping and wet cupping sessions, the pain was
relieved. He was able to walk easily. He returned every year to do one
wet cupping session to maintain the results.

Research:

Jong-In Kim, Tae-Hun Kim, Myeong Soo Lee, Jung Won Kang, Kun
Hyung Kim, Jun-Yong Choi, Kyung-Won Kang, Ae-Ran Kim, Mi-Suk
Shin, So-Young Jung and Sun-mi Cho
- Evaluation of wet-cupping therapy for persistent nonspecific low back
pain: a randomised, waiting-list controlled, open-label, parallel-group
pilot trial - Trials 2011, 12:146 doi:10.1186/1745-6215-12-146

[Hanan, S. Ali. and Eman, S. El-Said Cupping Therapy (AlHijama):

It's Impact on Persistent Non-Specific Lower Back Pain and Client
Disability. Life Sci J 2013;10(4s): 631-642] (ISSN:1097-8135).

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
 FIGURE
41RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS BACK POINTS Causes:
The actual causes are unknown. It is considered an autoimmune disease.
Symptoms:

Morning stiffness
Joint pain usually on both sides

Joint may lose its range of motion and may become deformed

Other symptoms may include: dry eye and mouth, nodules under the skin,
numbness in hands and feet and sleep difficulties.
FIGURE 42 RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS FRONT POINTS

Cupping therapy points:

Back points:

Back points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B5

Front points:

Front points: F7-L and F7-R

F7-L and F7-R
F2
F2
F13-L and F13-R F13-L and F13-R F17–L and F17-R F17–L and F17-R
F21-L and F21-R

Clinical case:

A woman 55 years old was suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis. She was
treated by wet, dry and massage cupping for 5 sessions. A decrease in
pain and symptoms was noted.

Research:

Khalil AM, Al-Qaoud KM, Shaqqour HM. Investigation of Selected

Immunocytogenetic Effects of Wet Cupping in Healthy Men. Spatula DD.
2013; 3(2): 51-57. doi:10.5455/spatula.20130712050838
Ahmed SM, Madbouly, NM, Maklad, SS, Abu-Shady EA.
Immunomodulatory effects of bloodletting cupping therapy in patients
with rheumatoid arthritis. Egypt J Immunol. 2005; 12:39-51.

GOUT
It is advised to continue drug therapy of gout like all conditions with
cupping therapy treatment.

Gout is a rheumatic disease, characterized by acute attacks of

arthritis, usually in the great toe of the foot. It sometimes leads to
deformity and chronic arthritis. Men are affected more than woman. 90%
of gout sufferers are men over thirty years. There are more than two
millions gout sufferers in the United States of America. In 2002, World
Health Organization published Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of
Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials. In this book, World Health
Organization supported using acupuncture and cupping for the treatment
of gout. The reviewed trial stated that: “Plumblossom needling together
with cupping has been recommended for treating gouty arthritis".

Symptoms of Gout:
The inflammation is usually in one joint.

An increase in blood uric acid is usually present due to a metabolic

disorder.
Acute gouty arthritis happens suddenly
The most affected joint is the joint of great toe, but it may affect other
joints such as the knee, feet and ankles.
The affected joint is very painful, swollen, red and warm.
Fever is usually present.

After the attack, the patient may be asymptomatic for years. Later,
gout may become a chronic disease with a serious disability and
deformity.

Causes
Excess alcohol, some infections, drugs and surgical operations may
increase blood uric acid and lead to acute gouty arthritis.
Gout treatment

Bed rest is very helpful in the treatment of an acute attack. Hot and cold
compresses may be helpful for some patients. Avoiding excess alcohol
consumption, restriction of high purine foods like meat, kidney, sardines
and liver, and avoiding drugs which increase blood uric acid such as
diuretics are recommended.
FIGURE 43 GOUT BACK POINTS
GOUT FRONT POINTS44 FIGURE

Cupping therapy points:

Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B15-L and B15-R
B15-L and B15-R
B23-L and B23-R

Front points:
Front points:
F17-L and F11-R
F17-L and F11-R
F11-L and F11-R but only with dry cupping
Clinical case:

A man 28 years old was suffering from gout. The blood uric acid was
high. His cholesterol level is also very high. He received 3 wet cupping
and herbal treatments. He also continued his medical treatment. The
blood uric acid returned to normal level. He was not suffering from any
joint symptoms. His cholesterol returned to near normal level.

Research:

Pan HL. (Observation of 39 cases of gout treated with plum-blossom

needling plus cupping) Zhenjiu Linchuang Zazhi, 1997, 13(3):29(in
Chinese).

HEADACHE
One of the diseases treated very effectively with cupping therapy and
acupuncture.
Dry or wet Cupping is very powerful in decreasing headache pain.
 Headache is defined as a pain in the area of the head or neck region.
The pain varies in intensity, duration and the area affected. There are
mainly two types of headaches: primary and secondary. A primary
headache is the most common type of headache and the most common
example of this type is migraine. Migraine is a pain in half of the head
and is characterized by a throbbing pain associated with nausea,
vomiting and visual disturbance. The secondary headache is caused by a
problem or a disease in the head and neck. The most common causes are
hemorrhage, thrombosis, inflammation, fever and raised pressure in the
head and neck region.

Headaches are the most common problem of the nervous system.

According to the World Health Organization, it affects two thirds of men
and 80% of women in developed countries. Migraine is the nineteenth
most common cause of disability worldwide, and it reduces the social
life of people who suffer from it by about 60% and may become a
lifelong disability.
FIGURE 45 HEADACHE BACK POINTS

Cupping therapy points

Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B2
B2
B25 (the center of the head)

Some patients respond to cupping on DU 14 (B1) only, so try to begin

the treatment with the most effective point and begin with a few points.
Migraine is responding well to head points.

The patient must shave his hair to apply cups on the head, or
alternatively you can put a honey or Gel on the hair to do cupping
therapy without shaving.
FIGURE 46 HEADACHE FRONT POINTS
Front points:
Front points:
F23-L and F23-R beside the eye on both sides (It is a very dangerous
area)
Clinical cases:

A woman 30 years old was suffering from migraine, after one wet
cupping session. The severity of pain and the frequency of migraine was
decreased significantly.

A man 32 years old was suffering from very severe headache. After 2
wet cupping sessions, his pain was relieved and he was healthy and not
suffering from headache for years.

Research:

Alireza Ahmadi, David C. Schwebel† and Mansour RezaeiThe efficacy

of wet cupping in the treatment of tension and migraine headache - The
American Journal of Chinese Medicine, 2008, Vol. 36, No. 1, 37–44

COMMON COLD
Causes:
One of the most common diseases in the world especially in winter but it
can occur at any time.

It caused by the cold virus which spread through air droplets so you can
get a cold when a sick person coughs or sneezes near you or after you
have touched a contaminated subject you touch your nose, eye or mouth.

Symptoms:

Sneezing
Nasal congestion and runny nose

Pain in the throat

May be fever

May be cough according to the type of the virus

Decrease of the appetite

Pain in muscles
FIGURE 47 COMMON COLD BACK POINTS

Cupping Points:
Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B5
B5
B19-L and B19-R
B19-L and B19-R
B23-L and B23-R

FIGURE 48 COMMON COLD FRONT POINTS Front Points:

Front Points:
F6
Research:

Ye XF, Zhang HF, Pang ZW. [Therapeutic effects of common cold of

wind-cold type at early stage treated by different cupping duration].
Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2011 Apr;31(4):357-9
BRONCHITIS
Is an inflammation of the bronchial tube which carry air to the lungs.
ACUTE BRONCHITIS
Causes:

Many viruses can cause this inflammation and it transmitted the same
way as the common cold.

Symptoms:

Cough
Shortness of breath

Wheezing

Chest tightness
FIGURE 49 BRONCHITIS FRONT POINTS
CHRONIC BRONCHITIS
Causes:

Cigarette smoking is the most common cause and long term breathing of
dusts and other air pollution substances is another cause.

It also called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Symptoms:

Wet Cough (inflamed bronchi produced a lot of mucus)

Shortness of breath

Chest tightness

It is a chronic condition and it is not completely relieved by treatment

FIGURE 50 BRONCHITIS BACK POINTS

Cupping Therapy Points:

Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B13-L and B13-R
B13-L and B13-R
B15-L and B15-R

Front Points:

Front Points: F1
F1
F2
F2
F7-R and F7-L
F7-R and F7-L
F6
F6
F17-R and F17-L

Clinical case:

A man 54 years old was suffering from chronic bronchitis due to

cigarette smoking. He was treated by wet cupping. There is an
improvement in his symptoms. His chest tightness was decreased.

Research:

Zhang CQ, Liang TJ, Zhang W. [Effects of drug cupping therapy on

immune function in chronic asthmatic bronchitis patients during
protracted period]. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2006
Nov;26(11):984-7.
Zhao J. Combination of cupping therapy and antibiotic treatment of 220
pediatric cases with cough after acute upper respiratory infection [in
Chinese]. Shanxi Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
2010;26(8):34.

BRONCHIAL ASTHMA
Causes:
It is caused by an airway inflammation

In sensitive people, there are many triggers to asthma attach such as

cigarette smoke, dust, pollen, exercise and respiratory infections.

Symptoms:

Cough

Chest tightness
Wheezing

Dangerous symptoms include: bluish color, loss of breath, decreased

level of alertness, rapid pulse, sweating or increased anxiety

Sometimes it is a life threatening condition

FIGURE 51 BRONCHIAL ASTHMA BACK POINTS
Cupping Therapy Points:
Front points:

Front points: F7-L and F7-R

F7-L and F7-R
F1
F1
F2
F2
RN 17

FIGURE 52 BRONCHIAL ASTHMA FRONT POINTS N.B: the distribution of

the points takes the normal anatomical position of lungs.
Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B5

The patient with bronchial asthma need also:

hypo allergenic diet

stop cigarette smoking and avoid passive smoking

avoid inhalation of perfumes and dust

take a lot of hot drinks such as anise and ginger

Clinical cases:
A boy 13 years old was suffering from mild bronchial asthma. He
received ten flash cupping therapy treatments. 2 sessions per week for
five weeks. There was a significant increase in his pulmonary functions
tests. There was a decrease in his bronchial asthma symptoms and a
decrease in his frequent needs for the risk medication.

A man 24 years old was suffering from moderate to severe bronchial

asthma. He was suffering from asthma acute attack frequently. He used
the asthma risk medications more than 3 times per week. After 3 wet
cupping sessions, the pulmonary functions, frequency of used risk
medications, frequency of hospitalization was significantly decreased.
After months, his quality of life was increased. He began to involve in
exercises. His asthma degree was decreased to mild asthma.

Research:

Mohamed Elsayed Mohamed Abd al-Jawad, Saeed Adel Mohamed,

Badawy Ahmed Elsayed, Abd Elfattah Nevine M Mohamed - Evaluation
of Wet Cupping Therapy (Hijama) as an Adjuvant Therapy in the
Management of Bronchial Asthma - Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and
Occupational Therapy - An International Journal
Year : 2011, Volume : 5, Issue : 4

Tamer Shaban, Magdy Karam El-Deen, Rehab Abd El kader, The

Role of Cupping Therapy As a Complementary Therapy On The
Pulmonary Functions And Quality Of Life Of Asthmatic Children.
Medical Studies Department, Institute of Postgraduate Childhood
Studies, Ain Shams University- Egypt- Master Thesis – 2011

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME & SPASTIC COLON

It is a bowel (intestinal) disease due to inflammation usually without
known reason.
This term refers to two major diseases Crohn's disease and Ulcerative
Colitis.
This is a harmful chronic disease and it is the main intestinal
inflammatory disease in the developed countries.
Irritable bowel syndrome is an adult disease, most frequently occurs
between fifteen and twenty five years old.
Causes:

Genetic factors play an important role especially in Crohn's disease than

in ulcerative colitis.
Environmental elements such as pollution and the quality of food and
lifestyle.

Cigarette smoking, especially Crohn's disease.

Crohn's disease:
Symptoms:

May be there is no symptoms until sudden exacerbation

Low fever and diarrhea

Pain in the right side especially at the lower abdomen

A disease in the perianal area which is secreting pus such as an abscess

Ulcerative colitis:
Symptoms:
 Diarrhea (loose stool) containing blood

Pain in the lower part of abdomen

Prognosis:

The inflammatory bowel disease if well diagnosed and treated by

medical or surgical means according to the severity of the disease will
controlled successfully and the patient will cope with and will be a
productive individual without limitations or with minimal limitations.

Other management procedures:

Diet therapy

Avoid stress

Relaxation techniques

Hypnotherapy treatment
FIGURE 53 IBS BACK POINTS

Cupping therapy points:

Back Points:
Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B16-L and B16-R
B16-L and B16-R
B17-L and B17-R
B17-L and B17-R
B18-L and B18-R

FIGURE 54 IBS FRONT POINTS

Front points:

Front points: F11-L and F11-R

F11-L and F11-R
F5
F5
F6
Research:

MacPherson et al.: Acupuncture for irritable bowel syndrome:

primary care based pragmatic randomised controlled trial. BMC
Gastroenterology 2012 12:150.

CHRONIC GASTRITIS
It is a continuous inflammation of the stomach.
Causes:

Infection by bacteria called Helicobacter pylori

Malfunction of the immune system

Stress
FIGURE 55 CHRONIC GASTERITIS BACK POINTS Symptoms:

Pain in upper abdomen

 Nausea and vomiting
Cupping Therapy Points
Back Points:

Back Points: B3-L and B3-R

B3-L and B3-R
B8
B8
B15-L
B15-L
B16-L and B16-R

Front points:

Front points: F3
F3
F8-L
F8-L
F11-L and F11-R Shuang He, Junfan Luo, Jingfen Chen - Clinical
study on chronic gastritis treated by acupuncture - Journal of
Acupuncture and Tuina Science - June 2011, Volume 9, Issue 3, pp 179-
181.
CHRONIC GASTERITIS FRONT POINTS56 FIGURE
Research:
The total effective rate was more than 90% for using acupuncture plus
cupping therapy at (EX –B2 ) point.
DIARRHEA
Diarrhea is a disease that increases a daily bowel movement to more
than three times. The stool may be loose or watery.
Causes:
Viral infections specially rotavirus

Infections by Bacteria and parasites

Inflammatory bowel disease

Irritable bowel syndrome

Malnutrition and malabsorption

Some tumors

Allergies to certain food and some medications

Surgery

Symptoms:
Three or more loose or watery bowel movements with or without the
following symptoms:

Abdominal pain
Fever

Blood in stool

Weight loss

Symptoms of dehydration
Nausea and vomiting

Sense of urgency to go to bathroom

FIGURE 57 DIARRHEA BACK POINTS

Acute diarrhea is a life threatening condition especially in developing

countries and immediate medical care is a must.

Oral rehydration Solution must be started immediately to prevent

dehydration.
FIGURE 58 DIARRHEA FRONT POINTS

Cupping therapy points:

Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B16-L and B16-R
B16-L and B16-R
B8

Front points:

Front points: F11-L and F11-R (dry cupping)

F11-L and F11-R (dry cupping)
F5 (dry cupping)
F5 (dry cupping)
F6 (dry cupping)

Clinical case:

A man 28 years old was suffering from moderate diarrhea and

abdominal pain. He treated by usual western medical treatment and he
received one cupping therapy treatment. The cupping session was a dry
cupping session on front points. Improvement in symptoms and pain
occurred in the same day. He was completely cured after 2 days.

Research:

Yao X. Clinical observation of cupping therapy combined with

acupuncture on chronic diarrhea [in Chinese]. Jilin Medical Journal.
2006;27:1403–1404.

CONSTIPATION
Constipation is a common disease. The patient is suffering from inability
to pass stool.
There is a pain associated with constipation which may be light or
medium or severe in its intensity.
Diet modification with cupping therapy is recommended. We can modify
the diet of the patient by:

Increase the amount of fibers ingested by the patient

Increase the amount of fruits and green vegetables in the diet

One of the most effective methods is one spoon of olive oil and one
spoon of honey in a cup of water before breakfast.

Walking and physical activity is also helpful in relieving constipation

FIGURE 59 CONSTIPATION BACK POINT

Cupping Therapy Points:

Back Points:

Back Points: B1
B1
B3-L and B3-R
B3-L and B3-R
B16-L and B16-R
B16-L and B16-R
B17-L and B17-R
B17-L and B17-R
B9
FIGURE 60 CONSTIPATION FRONT POINTS Front points:

Front points: F11-L and F11-R

F11-L and F11-R
F5
F5
F6

Clinical case:

A woman 48 years old, suffering from chronic constipation. She

received one cupping therapy treatment (wet and dry types) plus diet
modification and gerbil remedies. She was relieved from constipation
after 2 weeks of treatment. Diet therapy is recommended for her for
maintain the improvement result.
HYPERTENSION
Hypertension is called the High Blood Pressure Disease.
Hypertension can be defined as a chronic disease of elevated arterial
blood pressure.
Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg measured by special device
(blood pressure monitor).
Hypertension is diagnosed when your blood pressure is over 140/90
mmHg.
Causes:
No causes: it is also called essential hypertension, and it is a common
type of hypertension

Secondary hypertension : kidney diseases, birth control bills, diet

pills, diseases of the adrenal gland and pregnancy are some causes.

Risk factors:

Obesity
Cigarettes smoking
Drinking alcohol
Diabetic patients
Previous family history of hypertension
Stressful life condition
Anxiety

These risk factors increase the chance of getting hypertension.

Symptoms:
No symptoms of essential hypertension in most of cases so the elderly
people must measure their blood pressure regularly.
Other symptoms:

Headache
Nausea

Vomiting

Blurred vision
Cupping Therapy Points: Back Points:

1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B15-R
4. B16-L and B16-R
5. B8
6. BL 23 on both sides

Essential hypertension is the most common type of hypertension

without known cause.
Cupping therapy decreases blood pressure to a normal level
Blood pressure monitor is needed and a full cupping therapy treatment
course is recommended.
Cupping therapy doesn't interfere with any medication.
FIGURE 61 HYPERTENSION BACK POINTS
Clinical case:

A man 55 years old was suffering from essential hypertension. His

blood pressure was 160-90 before the treatment. After the wet cupping
therapy session his blood pressure decreased to 140-85. He continued
his usual drug therapy and continue to monitor his blood pressure.
Cupping therapy can decrease the blood pressure but it is not confirmed
yet as a treatment for hypertension. So cupping therapy is a useful
complementary treatment with drugs in hypertension.

Research:

Lee MS, Choi TY, Shin BC, Nam SS. Cupping for hypertension: A
systematic review. Clin Exp Hypertens. 2010;32:423–425

FACIAL PARALYSIS
It is a paralysis in one side of the face. It may involve one muscle or
multiple muscles of the face.
Causes:

Facial nerve trauma, inflammation or injury.

Brain disease or injury involved the brain part which controls the facial
muscles.

Some tumors.

Stroke.

Symptoms:
The main symptom is Inability to move one or more muscles of the
face on one side.
Cupping Therapy points:
Back Points:
1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
Front points:
1. F22-L or F22-R (Affected side)
2. F23-L or F23-R (Affected side)
3. F24-L or F24-R (Affected side)
4. F25

FIGURE 62 FACIAL PARALYSIS FRONT POINTS Research:

Huang LP, Cao RL, Bi YF, Han ZC, Yue BA, et al. Combination of flash
cupping and acupuncture on treating of 115 cases with peripheral facial
paralysis [in Chinese]. Shanxi Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
2009;30:597–599.
Li P. Clinical observation on treatment of 60 cases of acute peripheral
facial paralysis with acupuncture and flash cupping therapy [in Chinese].
Journal of Shanxi College of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
2010;33(4):83–84

OBESITY AND WEIGHT REDUCTION

Obesity:

According to the World Health Organization, in 2008, more than 200

million men and nearly 300 million women were obese. 11% of
worldwide adults aged 20 and over were obese.

Obesity is to have or accumulate too much fat in the body which may
lead to health problems.
Obesity increases the risk of some cancers such as colon cancer,
diabetes, heart diseases, stroke and arthritis.
Causes:
There are many causes:

Excess food intake and lack of physical activity (The main cause)
Genetic factors
Some psychiatric disorders
Increasing urbanization
FIGURE 63 OBESITY BACK POINTS
FIGURE 64 OBESITY FRONT POINTS

Cupping therapy points:

Front points:

1. F2
2. F3
3. F10-R and F10-L
4. F11-R and F11-L
5. F6 and 3 cm below
6. F12-R and F12-L
7. F14 – R and F14-L
8. F15 –R and F15-L
9. F18-R and F18-L
10. F19 – R and F19-L
11. F21-R and F21-L

Back points

1. B1
2. B13-R and B13-L
3. B19-R and B19-L
4. B16-R and B16-L
5. B17-R and B17-L

Exercises and diet therapy are recommended and very important.

Research:

Bu TW, Tian XL, Wang SJ, Liu W, Li XL, et al. Comparison and
analysis of therapeutic effects of different therapies on simple obesity
[in Chinese]. Chinese Acupuncture & Moxibustion. 2007;27:337–340.

DIABETES MELLITUS

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder. A diabetic patient has a high blood

sugar due to failure of the pancreas to produce the right amount of insulin
which used to move sugar from the blood into cells or the cells do not
respond in a right way to the produced insulin.

Types
There are many types but the three main types are:

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease Type 2 diabetes is the

most common type Gestational diabetes is diagnosed during
pregnancy

Causes:

Type 1 diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin due to the destruction of

insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Type 2 diabetes is caused by a combination of factors, including
increased insulin resistance and lack or decrease of insulin production.
The trigger factors include overweight and obesity, environmental
factors, genetic factors and stressful life condition.

Symptoms:

Fatigue

Frequent urination
Increased thirst

Increased hunger

Weight loss
Slow healing of wounds These points used to enhance the condition of
the patient

with type 2 diabetes

Cupping Therapy Points:
Back Points:

1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B15-R
4. B16-L and B16-R
5. B17-L and B17-R
6. B9

Front points:
1. F2 2. F3
Research:

Ramazani M, Shariatzade S, Malekirad A, Akbari A, Shariatzade M.

Effect of cupping on blood factors and oxidative stress in diabetes type
II. Arak University of Medical Sciences Journal. 2013; 15 (8) :54-60
Ashraf Hussein Hassan, Farag Mohammed Farag, Mohammed Elmahdy
H.Sarhan, Mohammed Yakout Abdel Aziz, and Mohammed Ahmed Abo
Elela. Evaluation of cupping therapy in some chronic diseases
(Rheumatoid Arthritis, Type 2 DM and chronic HCV infection). Thesis
Submitted in partial fulfillment for M.D Degree of Internal Medicine.
253. 2006.
FIGURE 65 DIABETES BACK POINTS
FIGURE 66 DIABETES FRONT POINTS

HEMORRHOIDS
It is defined as swollen veins in the anal canal. It may be internal
hemorrhoid or external hemorrhoids
Causes:
Continuous sever pressure in pelvic and rectal veins such as pregnancy,
over weight and chronic constipation
Symptoms:
Bloody stool due to bleeding during defecation Rectal pain and
itching
Cupping Therapy Points:
Back Points:

1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B15-R
4. B16-L and B16-R
5. B8

Front points:
1. F12-L and F12-R 2. F6
Hemorrhoids need also diet modification to avoid constipation with a
diet rich in green vegetables and fruits.
FIGURE 67 HEMORROIDS BACK POINTS
FIGURE 68 HEMORROIDS FRONT POINTS

DYSMENORRHEA
It is defined as a pain with menstruation or the painful menstruation.

It is classified into primary dysmenorrhea and secondary dysmenorrhea.

Primary dysmenorrhea is a recurrent menstrual cramps not related to any
other diseases. The secondary dysmenorrhea is a menstrual pain due to
reproductive system disease.

Causes:

Primary dysmenorrhea may be due to uterine contractions

Secondary dysmenorrhea is due to reproductive system diseases
such as endometriosis.

Symptoms:

Abdominal pain
Abdominal heaviness or pressure Pain in the back, hips and inner
thighs
FIGURE 69 DYSMENORRHEA FRONT POINTS

Cupping Therapy Points:

Front Points

1. F6
2. F12-R and F12-L
3. F17-R and F17-L
4. F21-R and F21-L

FIGURE 70 DYSMENORRHEA BACK POINTS Back Points

1. B8
2. B16-R and B16-L
3. B17-R and B17-L

Research:

Arshiya Sultana, Khaleeq ur Rahman, Muzn. Farzana, and Azad Lone -

Efficacy of Hijamat Bila Shurt (Dry Cupping) on Intensity of Pain in
Dysmenorrhoea-A Preliminary Study
- Anc Sci Life. 2010 Oct-Dec; 30(2): 47–50.

Caroline A. Smith, Caroline A. Crowther, Oswald Petrucco, Justin

Beilby, and Hannah Dent, “Acupuncture to Treat Primary Dysmenorrhea
in Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial,” Evidence-Based
Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2011, Article ID
612464, 11 pages, 2011. doi:10.1093/ecam/nep239

AMENORRHEA

Amenorrhea is a disease characterized by the absence of a monthly

menstruation period. It is classified as primary and secondary
amenorrhea. Primary amenorrhea is a disease of young girls who do not
menstruate by the age of 16. Secondary amenorrhea is an absence of
menstruation cycle in a woman after having normal menstruation cycles.

Causes:
Primary Amenorrhea:

Disease of ovaries
Reproductive organs deformity or poor formation Neurological or
hormonal diseases

Secondary amenorrhea

Pregnancy
Breast feeding
Menopause
Due to action of some birth control methods or cessation

of birth control bills

Poor nutrition
Emotional stress and psychiatric diseases
Chronic diseases
Tumors

Symptoms: No monthly menstrual flow

Cupping Therapy Points
FIGURE 71 AMENORRHEA FRONT POINTS Front Points

1. F6
2. F12-R and F12-L
3. F17-R and F17-L
4. F21-R and F21-L
FIGURE 72 AMENORRHEA BACK POINTS Back Points

1. B9
2. B16-R and B16-L
3. B17-R and B17-L

Research:

RUQIYYA PARVEEN - Clinical efficacy of Hijamat Bil Shurt (Wet

Cupping) in the management of Ehtebas Tams Sanwi (Secondary
Amenorrhea) – 2012 - Rajiv Gandhi University of Health
Sciences,Karnataka,Bangalore – Disseration
http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7796

URTICARIA

Urticaria is a very common problem. About 20% of people suffer from it

during the course of their life. Urticaria is characterized by itchy
swollen areas that appear on the skin.

It can be classified into allergic urticaria and non-allergic urticaria

Causes:

Unknown causes for about 50% of cases

Allergy to substances such as latex
Infections
Heat or cold
Certain chemical exposure
Emotional stress

Symptoms:

Urticaria is also known as hives.

A raised, itchy rash
May involve small or Large areas of the skin
May develop Angioderma or swelling of a deeper layer of
skin.
FIGURE 73 URTICARIA BACK POINTS
Cupping Therapy Points:
Back Points:

1. B1
2. B3- L and B3-R
3. B16-L and B16-R
4. B17-L and B17-R
5. And above the both elbows

Research:

Mohammad Sharif Sharifi, and Hamidollah Afrasiabian Evaluation of

Wet Cupping Treatment in Patients with Chronic Urticaria and
Angioedema - The Open Conference Proceedings Journal, 2013, 3, 1-5

ENURESIS
Enuresis is known as Bed-wetting

The disease is not diagnosed unless the child is 6 years or maybe 7.

Nocturnal enuresis, or bed-wetting at night, is the most common type.

Causes:
The most common causes:

A small bladder
Urinary tract infections Stress or psychic disease Diabetes
Chronic constipation Hormonal imbalance

Symptoms:
Repeated bed-wetting at least 2 times per week for longer than 3
months.
Cupping Therapy Points:
Back Points:

1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B8
4. B15-L and B15-R (dry cupping)
5. B16-L and B16-R (dry cupping)
6. B17-L and B17-R (dry cupping)

FIGURE 74 ENURESIS BACK POINTS

Front points:

1. F5 (dry cupping)
2. F6 (dry cupping)
3. F11-L and F11-R (dry cupping)

Research:

Zhu Wei-ping - Clinical observation of 82 cases of enuresis treated by

ginger-partitioned moxibustion plus cupping therapy - Journal of
Acupuncture and Tuina Science December 2003, Volume 1, Issue 6, pp
24-25

FIGURE 75 ENURESIS FRONT POINTS

FEMALE INFERTILITY

It is the inability of the female to be pregnant after 2 years of marriage

with regular intercourse and without using any contraceptive devices.

The prevalence among couples is about 10% to 20%, so this method

can help married infertile women to have normal ovulation and more
chance to get pregnant.

There were abundant clinical experiences and medical records for

infertility in traditional medicine and cupping therapy. So we follow the
world trend to do the research on traditional medicine since WHO
launched the first global strategy on traditional and
complementary/alternative medicine (TM/CAM) to assist countries to
create a stronger evidence base about the safety, efficacy and quality of
the TM/CAM products and practices

Causes
The most common causes are hormonal disturbance or poly cystic ovary
and hypo-ovarianism.
Cupping Therapy can regulate the hormonal system and stimulate
ovulation.

If the husband is normal - pregnancy may occur from 1 to 6 months

after the first cupping therapy session.
Cupping stimulates ovulation and stimulates ovaries and regulates sex
hormones.

Cupping Therapy Points:

FIGURE 76 FEMALE INFERTILITY BACK POINTS Back Points:

1. B1
2. B2
3. B3-L and B3-R
4. B15-R
5. B16-L and B16-R
6. B8
 FIGURE 77
FEMALE INFERTILITY FRONT POINTS Front points:
1. F3
2. F12 on both sides(dry cupping therapy)
The most important points are B1 and F12 on both sides (ovarian
sites)
Other interventions include diet therapy if the female is obese.
Clinical Case:

A female 28 years old and married 5 years ago, was suffering from
infertility, poly cystic ovaries, anovoulatory periods and obesity.
Pregnancy occurred after the first cupping therapy session. She
delivered a twin (two boys) and they were healthy and normal.

Research:

Rong Zhao, Acupuncture-moxibustion treatment for polycystic ovary

infertility: A report of 20 cases - Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina
Science - April 2012, Volume 10, Issue 2, pp 89-91.

MALE INFERTILITY
Many causes of male infertility and in general it is the inability to have
children.

The causes may include azospermia (no sperms), Varicocele, decreased

number of sperms, decreased motility of sperms and abnormal shape of
sperms.

Cupping Therapy Points:

FIGURE 78 MALE INFERTILITY BACK POINTS
Back points:

1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B15-R
4. B5
5. B16-L and B16-R
6. B8
FIGURE 79 MALE INFERTILITY FRONT POINTS
Front points:
1. F12-L and F12-R (Dry cupping)
2. F6
Other interventions include:

Using multivitamins with zinc supplements Using royal jelly

Asian ginseng (herbal supplement) Dietary interventions Avoid
stress and fatigue

Case study:

A male 34 years old was suffering from infertility, his seminal

analysis was not normal. Sperm count was about three millions with a
decrease in motility. After cupping treatment and nutritional therapy. His
sperm counts were twelve millions. And his wife got pregnant after 2
months.

Research:
 Hennawy, M. (2004). "Cupping Therapy and Infertility". Website:
http://www.obgyn.net/english/pubs/features/presentations
/hennawy15/280,1

IMPOTENCE:

It is a common male disease which has many causes from psychological

causes and fatigue to severe somatic causes and uses of certain drugs.

The definition of impotence is inability to do sexual intercourse due

to the failure of erection maintenance.
FIGURE 80 IMPOTENCE BACK POINTS

Cupping Therapy Points:

Back Points:
1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B15-R
4. B16-L and B16-R
5. B8

FIGURE 81 IMPOTENCE FRONT POINTS Front points:

1. F12 on both sides (dry cupping therapy)
Other interventions include:

Using multivitamins with zinc supplements

Using royal jelly
Asian ginseng (herbal supplement)
Dietary interventions
Avoid stress and fatigue

PROSTATITIS:
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate which is very common in old
age which may be acute or chronic inflammation.
FIGURE82 PROSTATITIS BACK POINTS

There are many causes of this disease and it has many symptoms such
as: pain, discharge and difficulty in passing urine.
Cupping Therapy Points
Back Points:

1. B1
2. B3-L and B3-R
3. B16-L and B16-R
4. B8

Front points:
1. F12 on both sides 2. F 6

FIGURE83 PROSTATITIS FRONT POINTS

CHAPTER 5
CUPPING THERAPY CLINICAL TRIALS
We can classify cupping therapy clinical trials into 5 categories:

categories: Mechanism of action trials: The aim is to find, report and

understand the mechanism of action of cupping therapy.

cupping therapy.

Safety trials: The aim is to report safety and side effects of various
cupping therapy types.
effects of various cupping therapy types.
Survey researches: The aim is to report use, attitude and knowledge of
cupping therapy among certain groups of participants.
certain groups of participants.
Clinical treatment trials: The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of
cupping therapy to treat certain disease or diseases. This may include:
number of cupping therapy treatments, cost effectiveness and quality of
life of participants. This also may include reporting a clinical case or
cases or clinical trials
reporting a clinical case or cases or clinical trials
Review researches: The aim is to review previous cupping therapy
trials in certain disease(s) or symptom(s) and to reach a conclusion for
effectiveness of cupping therapy.
effectiveness of cupping therapy.

Mechanism 2-Safety of action trials

trials
3-Survey4- Clinical 5- Review Researchestreatment researchestrials

There are many published studies and researches to evaluate the

effectiveness of cupping therapy and there are many master and
doctorate dissertations about acupuncture and cupping therapy. And the
clinical trials in this field are growing.

There were a good anecdotal evidence that cupping therapy had a in

treating some diseases.

The need for quality designed, well controlled trials are increasing to
confirm the previous researched results and to evaluate more diseases.

We will discuss here some of previous randomized controlled trials and

their conclusion.

The randomized controlled trials are researches that randomly assigned

participated patients into 2 or more groups as a test and control groups.
The clinical trial areas of research included:

Skin Scars
Childhood bronchial asthma
Hypertension
Diabetes mellitus
Low back pain
Headache and migraine
Brain infarction accompanying disorders
Acne
Acute facial paralysis
Adult bronchial Asthma
Urticaria
Senile habitual constipation
Hypo-ovarianism
Fibromyalgia syndrome
Brachialgia paraesthetica nocturna
Ankylosing spondylitis
Gouty arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Atherosclerosis
Tietz syndrome
Hiccup in cases of cerebrovascular accident. Diagnosis and
treatment of early external pathogenic

invasion
Simple obesity
Acute eczema
Neurodermatitis
Senile psycho physiologic disorders
Pregnant suffering from early and late gestational

toxicosis.
Anterior Knee Pain
Neck pain

Clinical Treatment trials

Brain infarction accompanying disorders

A research was conducted by Irina Kim in Russia to evaluate the

effectiveness of using acupuncture, Auriculotherapy, cupping massage
and Moxibustions for treatment of Brain infarction accompanying
disorders, the total effective rate was 86%. And the cured rate was
40%. The researcher concluded“Acupuncture is safe and effective
method to cure consequence of BI
1
".
Acne

A research was conducted by Song SJ in China to evaluate the

effectiveness of using ear point bloodletting combined with cupping for
the treatment of acne. The researcher concluded: " The therapeutic
effect of ear point blood-letting combined with cupping at Back-shu
points is significantly better
2
".
Another study conducted by Moetaz El-Domyati et al. to evaluate the
effectiveness of Cupping Therapy in some dermatoses
concluded:“Chinese wet cupping can be considered an effective
alternative or complementary therapy for chronic idiopathic
urticarial (CIU) and acne vulgaris patients.”31

Acute facial paralysis

A research was conducted by Wei-Hong Li from china to evaluate the

effectiveness of using Western medicines, plum-blossom needle and
cupping, and then local radiation by TDP for the treatment of acute facial
paralysis, the cured rate was 81.2%. The researcher concluded:" Plum-
blossom needle therapy combined with cupping at the affected side
can help restore functions of facial nerves, and obviously increase the
cured rate and shorten the therapeutic course for acute facial
paralysis"3.

Asthma

A research was conducted by Zhang et al to evaluate the effectiveness of

using orally taken Liuwei Dihuang Pill (LDP) and drug cupping therapy
for treatment of asthma. The effective rate was (90.0% vs. 59.5%)4 .

Another study conducted by Shao Jingming to evaluate the effectiveness

of using acupuncture, Moxa, and cupping therapy for asthma. The
researcher found that 98.2% were improved or markedly improved and
a comparison of the effects of Bl13, Du 14 and Bl12 using acupuncture
with cupping, acupuncture with Moxa and no treatment showed the
greatest improvement for acupuncture with cupping.5

Another study conducted by Mohamed Abd Elgawad et al to evaluate the

effectiveness of cupping therapy as an adjuvant therapy in the
management of patient with bronchial asthma reported significant
improvement in pulmonary functions and daytime symptoms in a group
treated by cupping therapy and asthma drug therapy.26
Urticaria

A research was conducted by Yang YL et al to evaluate the effectiveness

of using cupping therapy on shenque point to treat urticaria. There were
improvement symptoms in 93.8%, and 35.8% of patients were cured6.

Senile habitual constipation

A research was conducted by Jiang et al to evaluate the effectiveness of

using moving cupping and moxibustion to treat senile habitual
constipation. The clinical cured-markedly effective rate was 84.4%7.

Hypo-ovarianism

A research was conducted by Ma et al to evaluate the effectiveness of

using Body acupuncture (manual) plus cupping for the treatment of hypo
ovarianism. The effective rate was 76.8% vs.47.3%. The researcher
also reported the long term effect of the acupuncture plus cupping by
hormonal assay8.

Fibromyalgia syndrome

A research was conducted by Li CD et al to evaluate the effectiveness of

acupuncture at five mental points, moving cupping on the back on
fibromyalgia patients. The researcher concluded:" Combination of
acupuncture with cupping therapy is an effective therapy for
fibromyalgia syndrome"9.

Brachialgia paraesthetica nocturna

A research was conducted by Ludtke et al in Germany to evaluate the

effectiveness of using wet cupping once to treat brachialgia paraethetica
nocturna. This study reported shortterm effects of a single wet cupping
therapy session, which remained at least for 1 week10.

Ankylosing spondylitis

A research was conducted by Xue-wen Wan to evaluate the

effectiveness of using acupuncture combined with cupping therapy to
treat ankylosing spondylitis. The researcher concluded :" clinical
remission rate was 62.5%vs 33.3%, the total effective rate 93.8% vs.
83.3%, the recurrence rate after one year was 3.3%vs 24.0%."11.

Gouty arthritis

A research was conducted by Pan to evaluate the effectiveness of using

Plum-blossom needling plus cupping for the treatment of gouty arthritis.
The researcher concluded:" After 6 weeks of treatment, a marked
improvement was observed in: 100% of the test group, 65% of the
control group"12.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A research (Master thesis) was conducted in Egypt by Sahbaa M.

Ahmed et al and published in the Egyptian journal of immunology to
evaluate the effectiveness of bloodletting cupping therapy for treatment
of rheumatoid arthritis as a complementary therapy.

The researcher concluded: " blood-letting cupping combined with

conventional medicinal therapy has several advantages. It exerts
marked improvement on the clinical condition of patients, especially
visual analogue scale of pain"13.

Atherosclerosis

A research was conducted by Niasari et al from Iran to evaluate the

effectiveness of wet cupping therapy for treatment of atherosclerosis
concluded:" Wet cupping may be an effective method of reducing LDL
cholesterol in men and consequently may have a preventive effect
against
atherosclerosis"14.

Tietz syndrome

A research was conducted by Yang, 1997 to evaluate the effectiveness

of acupuncture plus cupping therapy for the treatment of Tietz syndrome.
The cure rate was 64.8% vs. 37.5% in the control group15.

Hiccup in cases of cerebrovascular accident

A research was conducted by Hongliang et al to evaluate the

effectiveness of acupuncture and cupping for treatment of hiccup in cases
of cerebrovascular accident. The result was total effective rate is 92.5%
vs. 72.5%.

The researcher concluded :" The effect of acupuncture and cupping for
hiccup due to cerebrovascular accident was noticeably superior to
Ritaline"16.

Diagnosis and treatment of early external pathogenic invasion

A research was conducted in New York by Moses et al who use cupping

around the area of Zhongfu (LU 1) to diagnose and treat early pathogenic
invasion. The total effective rate was 96.0%.

The research concluded :" Application of cupping around the area of

Zhongfu (LU 1) seems to be able to diagnose, prevent and treat early
stage of external pathogenic invasion. This modality has significant
clinical value, and further research is warranted."17.

Simple obesity
A research was conducted by Yin et al by using electro acupuncture,
movable cupping plus acupoint catgut embedding to treat simple obesity.
The total effective rate was 90.0%. The researchers concluded:"
Acupuncture, cupping plus acupoint catgut embedding therapy can
increase therapeutic effect on simple obesity of stomach and intestine
excess-heat type, and it is a better method for treatment of this
disease"18.

Acute eczema

A research was conducted by Yao J et al. They pricked the affected

parts with three-edge needle and bloodletting, puncturing and cupping at
back-Shu points with a threeedge needle. The total effective rate is
100.0% and markedly effective rate is 89.1%.

The researcher concluded: " Pricking and bloodletting and cupping

with a three-edge needle has a definite therapeutic effect on acute
eczema, which is better than that of the western medicine."19.

Neurodermatitis

A research was conducted by Zhang Y et al by using hot-red needle

therapy combined with bloodletting puncturing and cupping for the test
group versus medical cream for the control group. The effective rate
was 96.3% vs. 81.0%. The cured rate was 51.9%vs 28.6%20.

Senile psycho physiologic disorders

A research was conducted by Qie YL by using acupuncture and

Moxibustion combined with rapid and repeated cupping. The researcher
concluded:" Acupuncture and moxibustion combined with rapid and
repeated cupping at points on the back can more rapidly alleviate the
psychotic symptoms of thinking more and misgivings."21.

Pregnant suffering from early and late gestational toxicosis

A research was conducted by Tamara et al at Women Hospital,
Korsakov, Russia the researcher used cuppingglasses massage for the
test and the result was 70%vs25% and the researcher reported very
important points about cupping therapy, the researcher concluded:"
Vacuum therapy is an effective method of treatment in obstetrics.
Advantage: it has no collateral effects on the pregnant body and fetus.
It sufficiently improves the uteroplancental circulation of blood. It's a
preventive measure against infant's and mother's death. Treatment is
carried out in outpatient conditions that's why being highly effective it
doesn't require the pregnant women to be hospitalized."22.

Anterior Knee Pain

A research was conducted by Ahmed Younis et al. At the University of

East Anglia, UK to evaluate the effectiveness of cupping therapy for the
treatment of anterior knee pain. The researcher concluded:" The efficacy
of the treatment of Cupping Therapy for Anterior Knee Pain,
wellbeing and range of motion has been researched and results reveal
improvements in participants as a result of Cupping Therapy"23.

Skin scars

A research was conducted in Egypt to evaluate the subcision

–suction method in the subcision –suction method in the treatment of
depressed scars (post acne scars, chicken pox scars and post-traumatic
scars) by Rehab Lotfy et al. The researchers concluded that“At the end
the treatment by Subcision-suction method, all groups showed
improvement after the treatment. But results showed highly significant
correlation between the suction session’s regularity and the
improvement of scar”24

Lumbar disc prolapse

A research was conducted in Egypt to evaluate the efficacy of cupping in

management of lumbar disc prolapse by Shaimaa Atwa et al. The
researcher concluded : “Comparison of patients treated with cupping
therapy and patients treated with physical therapy and the same
therapeutic exercise program displayed significant better
improvement in patients received cupping therapy in the same
outcomes”25.

Childhood bronchial asthma

A research was conducted by Tamer Shaban et al (The book author) in

Ain Shams University to evaluate the effectiveness of Cupping Therapy
as a complementary therapy on the pulmonary functions and quality of
life of asthmatic children.

Full treatment program and results will be published in a separate book.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Cupping

Therapy as a complementary therapy on the pulmonary functions and
quality of life of asthmatic children and adolescent.

Patients in the study were 60 children with diagnosed Mild persistent

asthma divided into two groups, thirty children with mild persistent
asthma (8 Female and 22 Male) enrolled in this study as a study group
(Cupping therapy + drug treatment). And matched age and sex of thirty
children with mild persistent asthma (7 Female and 23 Male) as a
control group (drug treatment only) for comparative purpose. Pediatric
Quality of Life Questionnaire and Pulmonary functions (FEV1, FVC,
FEV1/FVC Ratio, and FEF 25%-75%) were measured before and after
the treatment for both groups. Changes in all pulmonary function tests
(FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC and FEF 25%- 75%) and Pediatric Quality of
Life Questionnaire were found to be significantly higher in (Study group)
than in the control group (p-value < 0.05). Conclusion: “Cupping
Therapy is an effective complementary treatment in asthmatic
children and has a significant improvement effect on the pulmonary
function and on the quality of life of asthmatic children.”27
Low Back Pain

A research was conducted in Egypt by Amal Desouki et al. To evaluate

the effects of the intervention technique (epidural analgesia) versus
traditional technique (Cupping therapy) for pain relief in patients with
low back pain which failed to recover with the conservative medical
treatment. The researcher concluded:“The epidural injection of
steroids and local anesthetics for the relief of low back pain is
effective, and has wonderful results. Also, the wet cupping therapy has
the similar effect but without any complications, safe and cost
effective.”28

Hypertension and cardiovascular diseases

A research was conducted in the Faculty of Medicine at Tanta

University by Mohammed Hamed Gabriel et al. to answer this question:
Cupping therapy (al-hijama) does it have a medical role in
cardiovascular diseases? And the researchers concluded:” cupping
therapy has the capacity of controlling various risk factors of heart
diseases, like hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidaemia. In
hypertension, cupping therapy was proved by the traditional Chinese
medicine to be an effective therapy for controlling the blood pressure
of many cases”29.

Diabetes Mellitus

A research (doctorate dissertation) was conducted by Ashraf H. H.

Mohamed et al. for evaluation of cupping therapy in some chronic
diseases (Rheumatoid Arthritis, Type 2 DM and chronic HCV infection).
The researchers concluded:“Cupping therapy plays an important role
in controlling blood sugar and improving symptoms as an adjuvant
therapy”30.

Neck Pain
A research was conducted by Romy Lauche et al. to evaluate the
effectiveness of traditional Cupping on pain and mechanical thresholds
in patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain. The researcher
concluded:“A single application of traditional cupping might be an
effective treatment for improving pain, quality of life, and
hyperalgesia in chronic nonspecific neck pain (CNP).”32

Conclusion

There were several trials reported the positive effects of cupping

therapy and its great promising effects and positive results, we
encourage all research centers and organizations to design and organize
high quality randomized controlled trials in the field cupping therapy.

We encourage the translation of cupping therapy trials from other

languages specially Chinese, Korean, German and Japanese to English
facilitating access these translations.

The practice of cupping therapy regulated in some countries but not in

all countries, In the USA the certified acupuncturist usually can practice
cupping therapy as a part of the practice license, in some states the
physicians can practice cupping therapy in as a part of the practice
license. Some states required certain training hours practice. In the same
time, there are many countries without regulation procedures, so we
encourage these countries to take steps into the regulation of CAM
therapies, and the world health organization encouraged that in its
traditional medicine strategy plan.

The future is for integrating medical and complementary medicine

treatments especially for complex and chronic diseases.

WHO (World Health Organization) encouraged governments to integrate

the traditional medicine therapies into the main healthcare stream as they
are cost effective therapies for many conditions. I believe there is a cure
for every disease we will discover someday. We may not find yet the
appropriate treatment but someone will do. Our duty as a medical
community is to search and try various treatments.

We must use every piece of our knowledge, to discover a cure for

diseases like cancer, diabetes, hypertension and many other diseases.

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1. Irina Kim (Acupuncture for the treatment of brain infarct) ICMART

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3. Wei-Hong Li (Clinical observation on plum-blossom needle therapy
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13. Sahbaa M. Ahmed, Nour H. Madbouly, Soheir S. Maklad and Eman
A. Abu-Shady(Immunomodulatory Effects of Blood Letting Cupping
Therapy in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis) THE EGYPTIAN
JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY(Vol. 12 (2), 2005 Page: 39-51)
14. Niasari M, Kosari F, Ahmadi A. (The effect of wet cupping on
serum lipid concentrations of clinically healthy young men: a
randomized controlled trial) J Altern Complement Med. 2007 Jan-
Feb;13(1):79-82
15. Yang XT. [Observation of 108 cases of Tietze's syndrome treated
with short needling plus cupping.] Chinese Acupuncture and
Moxibustion, 1997, 17(7):435–436 [in Chinese].
16. Hongliang X, Xuemei C, Shizhao H, Chaofeng L. "Acupuncture and
cupping for treatment of hiccup in cases of cerebrovascular accident". J
Tradit Chin Med. 2006 Sep; 26(3):175-6.
17. Moses L, Wang BX. "Study on cupping for diagnosis and treatment
of early external pathogenic invasion] Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2005 Sep;
25(9):636-8.
18. Yin Shi, Lin-shan Zhang, Chen Zhao, Chun-qing He (Comparison of
therapeutic effects of acupuncture-cupping plus acupoint catgut
embedding and electroacupuncture on simple obesity of stomach and
intestine excess-heat type] Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2006 Aug ;26 (8):547-50
16941970 19. Yao J, Li NF [Clinical observation on pricking and
bloodletting and cupping with a three-edge needle for treatment letting
and cupping with a three-edge needle for treatment 6
20. Zhang Y, Zhou JW, Huang S, Chen CT, Deng Y, Huang YH
[Observation on the therapeutic effect of a red-hot needle therapy
combined with blood-letting puncture and cupping for treatment of
Neurodermatitis] Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2007 Apr;27(4):252-4
21. Qie YL [Observation on therapeutic effect of acupuncture and
moxibustion combined with cupping on senile psychophysiologic
disorders] Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2005 May;25(5):329-30
22. Dr.Tamara Khvan, Tatyana Kim (Vacuum therapy in obstetrics)
abstracts of ICMART '97 International Medical Acupuncture
Symposium.
http://altmed.iatp.org.ua/acupuncture/treatment/icmart97/ p41.html
23. Ahmed Younis, Kaleem Ullah: An investigation into the effect of
Cupping Therapy as a treatment for Anterior Knee Pain and its potential
role in Health Promotion. The Internet Journal of Alternative Medicine.
2007. Volume 4 Number 1.
24. Rehab Lotfy Ajjour ;Mohammed Zaki Kenawi, Asmaa Mohammed
El-Refaey - Subcision-suction method - a new combination therapy in
treatment of some acne scars and other depressed scars. Thesis (M.S)-
Banha university. faculty of medicine. department of venereology and
andrology – 2012
25. Shaimaa Atwa Mohammad Ali ; Ibrahim Abdullah ElBoghdady and
Mona Ahmed Mohsen - Efficacy of cupping in management of lumbar
disc prolapse - Essay (M.S.)Mansoura University. Faculty of Medicine.
Department of Rheumatology – 2009
26. Mohamed Elsayed Mohamed Abd Elgawad, Adel Mohamed
Saeed,Ahmed Elsayed Badawy,Nevine M. Mohamed Abd Elfattah -
evaluation ofcupping therapy as an adjuvant therapy in management of
bronchial asthma - thesisM.SFaculty of Medicine. Ain Shams
University.Chest Diseases 2009.
27. Tamer Shaban, Magdy Karam El-Deen Aly Daif,Rehab Abd El
kader Mahmoud - Thesis (Master) Ain Shams universityInstitute of
Postgraduate Childhood Studies,Department of childhood medical
studies -2010.
28. Amal Desouki Abdel-Aal;Salah Naguib Ahmed EL-Tallawy, Sahar
Adly Hashish, Ali Mohamed Ramadan - Comparison of Interventional
versus Alternative Techniques for Low Back Pain – Master thesis - EL-
Minia University – 2005 29. Mohammed Hamed Gabre Sherif; Fathia
Ahmed ElSheshtawy, Samia Sharaf El-Den, Mahmoud Zaky ElAmroussy
- Cupping therapy(al-hijama)does it have a medical role in
cardiovascular diseases - Thesis(M.Sc)Tanta university.Faculty of
medicine.cardiology department
– 2008
30. Ashraf Hussein Hassan Mohamed ,Farag Mohamed Farag, Mohamed
Ahmed Abu El-Ela, Mohamed El-Mahdy Sarhan, Mohamed Yakout Abd
El--Aziz - Evaluation of cupping therapy in some chronic diseases
(Rheumatoid Arthritis, Type 2 DM and chronic HCV infection) - Thesis
(Ph.D.)- Mansoura University. Faculty of Medicine. Department of
Internal Medicin – 2006
31. Moetaz El-Domyati, Fatma Saleh, Manal Barakat and Nageh
Mohamed - Evaluation of Cupping Therapy in Some Dermatoses -
Egyptian Dermatology Online Journal - Vol. 9 No 1: 2, June 2013
32. Romy Lauche, Holger Cramer, Claudia Hohmann, et al., “The Effect
of Traditional Cupping on Pain and Mechanical Thresholds in Patients
with Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain: A Randomised Controlled Pilot
Study,” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol.
2012, Article ID 429718, 10 pages, 2012. doi:10.1155/2012/429718
CHAPTER 6
INTERSTING TOPICS
One or two direction massage:
Using massage or moving cupping therapy in one direction or two
directions?

A study was conducted by Tian YY et al confirmed the effect of moving

(massage) cupping therapy on increasing the skin blood flow and
concluded: “It is suggested that the dual-directional moving cupping
is applicable for the treatment of local disorders and the abscopal
effect is better with moving cupping against the meridian running
direction”1

Two directions are recommended. Massage cupping against the

meridian running direction is more superior in increasing the skin blood
flow.

Interesting Trial
Cupping: A method to obtain epithelial grafts for the management of
resistant localized vitiligo.

Cupping therapy used to help the surgeons to obtain blisters from the
thigh skin to use for grafting on derma braded vitiliginous patches. There
was 80% success rate without any side effects.

A research was conducted with a faculty of medicine at Minia

University by Sherif Shoukry Awad concluded:” Chinese cupping is a
simple and easy-to-use method to obtain epithelial grafts for vitiligo
management.”2

Creativity in the cupping therapy field

Patents: there are many patents and creative progress in the field of
cupping therapy, there are creative patents every day in this field. For
example, multi functions cupping apparatus, instant pressure adjustable
full automatic cupping apparatus and a full cupping therapy system
patent. There are no limits to the creativity of the humankind. And I think
we are just in the beginning in the field of cupping therapy inventions.

We can classify inventions in this field to:

We can classify inventions in this field to: New cup shapes and
functions patents
New cup shapes and functions patents
Scraping techniques and apparatus patents
Scraping techniques and apparatus patents
A combination of cupping and other healing method patents
patents
Full automatic cupping therapy patents
Full automatic cupping therapy patents
Cupping therapy apparatus for certain disease patents

New Cups:
There is creativity in the shapes of cupping therapy cups. There are new
curved cups of various sized to suit the shapes of joints.

The hexagonal honeycomb cupping set is another new creative cup

shape.
New and sometimes rare materials used to produce some new cups.
Silicone cups as an example are now popular especially for facial and
massage cupping therapy.

New cupping types:

Aquatic cupping therapy is an example of the new cupping therapy

methods. The patient receives a dry cupping therapy by rubber cups
session underwater in a swimming pool.
Facial cupping and foot cupping are other examples of methods of
cupping therapy related to the area treated. The development of new
techniques in the treatment methods and art of the treatment of one area
is essential for the cupping therapists. It leads to more professional
skilled therapists and more sub specialty in cupping therapy careers.

References:

1. Tian YY, Wang GJ, Huang T, Jia SY, Zhang YQ, Zhang WB
- Impacts on skin blood flow under moving cupping along meridians in
different directions - Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2013 Mar;33(3):247-51..

2. Sherif Shoukry Awad - Chinese cupping: A simple method to obtain

epithelial grafts for the management of resistant localized vitiligo -
dermatologic surgery journal-no 9 – volume 34 – pages 1186-1193 –
Sep 2008

Dr. Tamer Shaban

Master of Child Health and
Nutrition.
MBBCh (bachelor of medicine and
surgery)
D.H.P (diploma of hypnotherapy and
psychotherapy)
D.C.M.T (diploma of complete mind
therapy)
 S.N.H.S Dip. (Nutrition)
S.N.H.S Dip. (Herbalism)
Postgraduate certificate of cupping therapy
Member of the Royle Institute of Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy (UK)
Member of the Complete Mind therapists Association (UK)
Fellowship member of the school of natural health sciences
Author of the professional guide to cupping therapy book
For comments, questions, feedback and advices please visit this
website:
www.acupuncturecupping.org

Notes